BREAKING Thousands at March for Life in Switzerland as Police Use Water Canons on 200 Masked Counter-Protestors who Ignited Firecrackers and Set Blockades


Zurich: 16th "March for Life" Draws Thousands Amid Police Action Against Counter-Protesters

The 16th annual "March for Life" brought approximately 2,200 pro-life participants to Zurich-Oerlikon on Saturday afternoon. Operating under the theme "Together for Life," this year’s rally placed a specific emphasis on encouraging men to embrace fatherhood, highlighting the emotional impact of abortion on men and families. SVP National Councillor Nicolas Kolly (Fribourg) addressed the crowd, advocating for greater support for mothers during difficult pregnancies and calling for stronger legal protections for unborn children.

Held in Oerlikon for the sixth consecutive year after being denied a permit for central Zurich due to safety concerns, the event featured music and speeches despite active disruptions. About 200 masked counter-demonstrators set up street blockades, ignited firecrackers, and threw bottles at law enforcement. Zurich City Police deployed water cannons and rubber bullets to disperse the counter-protest and prevent direct confrontations between the two groups. Two individuals were arrested for violence and threats against officers.

In response to their continued relocation outside the city center, organizers highlighted the newly launched "Stop Zurich's Double Standards" petition. Addressing Security Director Karin Rykart, the petition—which gathered 4,000 signatures in its first week—demands equal treatment with other political demonstrations and supports an ongoing legal appeal to return the march to central Zurich.

  • Event: The 16th "March for Life" gathered roughly 2,200 participants in Zurich-Oerlikon under the banner "Together for Life."

  • Focus: Key Speakers, including SVP National Councillor Nicolas Kolly, emphasized paternal responsibility, supporting mothers during crisis pregnancies, and legal protections for unborn children.

  • Security Response: Around 200 masked counter-protesters blocked routes, threw bottles, and set off firecrackers. Police utilized water cannons and rubber bullets to maintain separation, resulting in two arrests.

  • Location Controversy: Excluded from Zurich's city center since 2020 over safety concerns, organizers are legally appealing the restriction and launched a petition ("Stop Zurich's Double Standards") demanding equal access to central demonstration routes.

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