Citigroup has advised its employees to avoid confrontations with protesters targeting the bank’s New York headquarters. The advisory comes as climate activists and pro-Palestine protesters intensify their demonstrations, causing strain on staff and executives.
Recent weeks have seen activists blockading the entrance to Citigroup’s main office, with video footage capturing tense standoffs between protesters and police. The bank’s Security and Investigative Services (CSIS) team is guiding employees on how to handle these incidents, according to a memo viewed by Bloomberg.
The company’s spokesperson urged the employees to stay calm, following best practices for navigating protests, and listening to directions from CSIS and local law enforcement.
The protests, dubbed the ‘Summer of Heat’, have included anti-Israel chants and have led to approximately 200 arrests. Organisers, who are also protesting Citigroup’s involvement in fossil-fuel financing, vow to continue their actions throughout the summer.
Despite the disruptions, Citigroup has reaffirmed its commitment to employee safety and law-enforcement cooperation. Skyler expressed appreciation for local law enforcement’s swift actions to maintain safety and reiterated the bank’s respect for peaceful protests, while denouncing any form of hatred or discrimination.
Citigroup, a significant international bank in Israel since 2000, has been criticised for its financing arrangements that allegedly support military purchases by Israel. However, the bank maintains that such financing requires senior-level approval and adheres to strict policies against funding controversial weaponry.
Other banks, such as Barclays, have also faced similar protests, with branches vandalised due to their connections to Israeli defense companies. Barclays’ CEO defended their banking relationships, citing national security obligations.