Introduction to the Growing Situation in Geneva
In recent months, Geneva has witnessed a troubling increase in violence associated with crack cocaine usage, particularly in areas surrounding the Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève (HUG). While the internal environment at Quai 9—an established consumption space—has seen improvements, the external atmosphere remains volatile, raising concerns for both local residents and rehabilitation program participants.
Calming the Inside, Turmoil Outside
Over the past two months, the Quai 9 has seen significant changes, expanding its capacity to accommodate crack users. This enhancement has reportedly created a calmer environment within the facility, where individuals can safely inhale their substances away from the harsh elements. According to Vincent Carruzzo, the coordinator at Quai 9, “the situation has really pacified” within its walls. However, the same cannot be said for the outdoors. The newly reopened rear space intended as a buffer zone has instead attracted a new wave of users, many of whom are unregistered and uncooperative with the facility.
The Rise of Violence
According to reports, a troubling faction of violent individuals, often homeless and sometimes armed, has taken to pressuring regular users outside the facility. This has led to increased instances of theft, violence, and even physical assaults among users who frequent the area. The violent atmosphere is exacerbated by micro-trafficking, debts, and other forms of exploitation that thrive around the Quai 9. “Even though temperatures rise in the summer, the scale of violence seen this year is unprecedented,” warns Dr. Tiphaine Robet from HUG’s Centre for Addiction Psychiatry.
Aggressions at HUG
The repercussions of this violence extend to the patients visiting the Centre ambulatoire d’addictologie psychiatrique (CAAP Arve) at HUG. Reports indicate a significant surge in assaults against patients who are there to collect their substitution medications like methadone and Sevre-Long. These vulnerable individuals often find themselves targeted by violent offenders who see an opportunity to steal their recovery medications.
Understanding the European Context
This violence is not confined to Geneva; similar issues are surfacing across Europe, particularly in France. The anonymity and transient nature of many users complicate matters. “Assaulted users rarely file police reports,” notes Carruzzo, making it difficult to gauge the full extent of these crimes. As a result, security measures remain challenging, with authorities struggling to connect with this elusive group.
Law Enforcement Challenges
Efforts to combat this crisis involve targeted police operations aimed at increasing officer visibility in the area. However, the complexity of the situation means that the road to resolution is fraught with difficulties. “People are afraid to come and consume safely at Quai 9 due to the violence outside,” Carruzzo adds. The fear of aggression has led some users to avoid the facility altogether, further complicating their rehabilitation pathways.
Conclusion: The Urgent Need for Action
As Geneva grapples with this escalating crisis, the pressing need for timely action is evident. The Quai 9 is set to relocate by 2030 to accommodate construction projects at the Cornavin train station, but it must address the current volatility surrounding its premises before that move. The urgency for a peaceful resolution to the violence affecting both users and the local community cannot be overstated. With proactive measures and better support structures, Geneva may yet find a way to turn the tide against this growing menace.
