Explosive attacks on cash machines, burglaries at luxury car dealerships, raids on gun shops and even carjackings: in recent months, a string of spectacular crimes has made headlines across Switzerland. The incidents are fuelling a debate about security in a country traditionally regarded as one of the safest in the world.
In Geneva, these concerns are now spreading to the business community. According to several business representatives, the rise in crime and the resulting sense of insecurity are becoming a cause for concern. They fear, in particular, that this could affect the canton’s appeal and are calling on the authorities to step up their efforts.
According to a study published this week by the Foundation for the Attractiveness of canton Geneva (FLAG), the number of offences under the criminal code recorded in the canton rose by 14.1% between 2022 and 2025. Property offences, such as theft, burglary and fraud, account for nearly three-quarters of recorded offences. Homejackings almost doubled over the same period, while serious violence rose by more than 20%.
The authorities stress, however, that Geneva remains a safe city by international standards. They also point to several measures designed to modernise security systems and better combat new forms of crime. Some indicators are, in fact, moving in a positive direction, particularly when it comes to cybercrime.