Mediators

The return of the Mediators

Their reassuring presence prevents or appeases conflicts.

Immediately identifiable by their golden yellow T-shirts marked “MEDIATOR” in large letters, some twenty mediators, in groups of three, will supervise the quays and the Jardin Anglais from 15 July to 8 August.
When they first appeared during the Fêtes of 2009, where they were able to defuse tense situations on several occasions, bystanders would stop them to inquire about their mission. “They are neither auxiliary police, nor sheriffs” says Roland-Daniel Schneebeli, President of the Geneva Chamber of Mediators. “Their role is to reassure, and thereby prevent”. For instance, by talking with a group of young people to explain their presence at the Fêtes. They often manage to ease tensions spontaneously. However, if individuals are unruly due to the influence of alcohol or drugs or become threatening, the mediators will call on the police to intervene. Last year’s experience has shown where they may be needed at evening’s end during the week, on both weekends and especially on the evening of the fireworks display.
Do not hesitate to call on the twenty mediators who will be present on the quays – they are there in the interest of peace!