by Jonathan Charles in Geneva

German reinforcements were needed

During this summit, we've seen two different types of demonstrator. Both have been united by common themes; they're anti-capitalist, anti-globalisation, and anti-war.

But that is where the similarities end.

One group, the vast majority it has to be said, have gone about making their views known by peaceful means.

Although they are angry at being kept well away from the summit at Evian - a good 10 miles away - they have confined themselves to demonstrating peacefully.

But a sizeable minority have felt the need to deliver their message through violent means.

For the past few days they have been engaged in running battles through the centre of Geneva.

At one point on Sunday, they seemed to have assumed complete control of the Swiss city, with the freedom to do whatever they wanted.

And this included targeting shops, smashing windows and damaging property, and generally turning Geneva into a battleground.

It has to be said that the Swiss police moved very slowly to tackle and contain the protesters, leaving local citizens surprised at what they saw as an example of sending out all the wrong signals.

Molotov cocktails

But if they were angry at the laid-back approach of their own national force, they were much happier with the tactics of the German police, who arrived to back up their Swiss neighbours.

The Germans have much more experience of dealing with violent protesters, and have a tough reputation.

Original plans were for them to guard the airport, to ensure the Swiss police were not overstretched.

Locals have been unhappy with the police response

But on Sunday evening they were called on to send reinforcements into the centre of Geneva, to tackle the rioters.

And it was noticeable that after they had arrived, the situation was gradually brought under control.

It was much quieter here on Monday, as most of the protesters, having been up all night, were now taking the opportunity to catch up on some sleep.

The summit ends on Tuesday, so Monday night may be the last time that the protesters try to claim control of the streets.

The inhabitants of Geneva are of course, wishing for a good night's sleep that will not be disturbed by Molotov cocktails.