Police ahead of Eurovision: “Security is very high”

Traffic barriers, fire alarms and a large number of police meet 100,000 visitors – and possibly loud protesters – expected in Malmö in the future.

But the area around Malmö Arena will be safe, the police promise.

– Security is very high, municipal police officer Göran Holmberg announced in front of 180 businessmen – from hotel and restaurant owners to real estate companies, when they were informed by the police and the city of Malmö on Wednesday. It is about those who operate out on Hyllie – the area where the arena is located and the competition is housed.

Massive security work

This year’s Eurovision is decided in the shadow of the Gaza war and many have called for boycotts so that Israel can participate. Extensive demonstrations and thousands of visitors are expected. The event in Malmö is among the absolute largest in Sweden this year.

The security work is massive – because in addition to the music competition, the situation around the world is troubled and Sweden has a high terror threat level. Göran Holmberg urges anyone who sees something suspicious to contact the police.

– We would be grateful if you should see a strange figure, but we have nothing to indicate anything at the moment, he says regarding the possible threat picture.

Strong polarization

– There will be many of us from the police.

During the same meeting with local entrepreneurs, Ulf Nilsson, head of security in the city of Malmö, also touches on the fact that the competition is surrounded by a strong polarization that can affect the party atmosphere.

– But Malmö is a place where you can express yourself and live side by side. You don’t have to take a stand.