arch/ive/ief (2000 - 2005)

G8 - Convergence Has Started

Friday 30th
The NoBorder network demo for free movement of people and freedom of information has started in Geneva [video]. See first hand reports as they come in to imc-uk (timeline based on Greenwich time):
1:20pm - The one thousand strong demo has now arrived at Geneva's central station where it is due to finish. Athmosphere is still very festive, although there have been unconfirmed reports of some windows having been broken along the way.
12:50pm - The demo stopped outside the headquarters of the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO) and now it is heading back into town.
12:35pm - The demo is now very loud and festive. People are carrying many banners, incluiding a big one that reads "Open Source!". Many people are dancing to the rhythms of a big Samba Band.
12:25pm - The situation outside the IOM building has calmed down and the demo is marching on. People returned police tear gas with confetti.
12:00pm - Reports are coming in of police using tear gas against protesters outside the International Organisation of Migration (IOM) headquarters
11:40am - The demo is mainly peaceful and festive, although some cans and stones have been thrown into different buildings , including the Russian embassy.
11:15am - A 4,000 strong demo has stopped outside the headquarters of the WTO. Speeches about Open Source, against repression of information and for the freedom of movement are being made. The WTO signs outside the main building have been taken down by some protestors, whilst the gates to the compound have been opened and bangers have been thrown into the courtyard.