Thousands of anti-G7 protesters were expected to rally in Geneva Sunday under a heavy police presence ahead of the summit in Evian, just across the border with France.

The “No-G7” coalition of more than 60 associations, unions and left-wing groups aims to denounce “fascism and imperialism.” The demonstration takes place the day before Group of Seven leaders start their three-day annual gathering.

Geneva — about 40 kilometers (25 miles) southwest of the French spa town of Evian — is on edge. The authorities there are anxious to avoid any repeat of the mayhem of 2003, when anti-G7 rioters caused millions of dollars worth of damage in the Swiss city.