Davos braces itself for more protests

Security has been stepped up in the Swiss resort of Davos, following Saturday's clashes between anti-globalisation activists and police close to the congress centre where the annual summit of the World Economic Forum is being held.

Security has been stepped up in the Swiss resort of Davos, following Saturday’s clashes between anti-globalisation activists and police close to the congress centre where the annual summit of the World Economic Forum is being held.

Another demonstration is being held today in the town, amid tight security. In contrast to Saturday’s protest by about 1,300 people, today’s demonstration has been authorised by the local authorities.

Two policemen were injured during Saturday’s clashes, which occurred when police halted an unauthorised anti-globalisation march in the town. Police managed to keep the protesters 500 metres away from the congress centre.

Several cars were damaged and windows of a McDonald’s restaurant were broken. The clashes coincided with a day-long visit to the Forum by President Clinton.

The Swiss President, Adolf Ogi, condemned the violence, saying it was highly regrettable.

In the run-up to the Davos meeting, the Swiss authorities had said they were determined to avoid a repeat of the violent demonstrations, which overshadowed the World Trade Organisation summit in Seattle two months ago.

A 70-strong professional army unit was deployed in the town to help local police cope with demonstrations.

From staff and wire