Next week, Stockholm will host three major climate meetings. The police warn of recurring traffic disruptions when international dignitaries are to be escorted around the capital.
– Be out in good time and stay updated, advises the Stockholm Police’s Deputy Commander Caroline Westlund.
The climate week begins with the G20 countries’ environmental meeting in Saltsjöbaden on 30–31 May, continues with the UN climate meeting “Stockholm + 50” at the Stockholm Fair in Älvsjö on 2–3 June and culminates with World Environment Day in central Stockholm on 5 June.
Both the G20 meeting and “Stockholm + 50” attract politicians and dignitaries from all over the world. The UN summit, held 50 years after the organization’s first climate conference in Stockholm in 1972, will be attended by, among others, UN Secretary-General António Guterres and US Climate Envoy John Kerry.
Be out in time
Police are now warning that escorts of delegates, roadblocks and security arrangements will mean recurring traffic disruptions and limited traffic throughout the next week. More police than usual will also be seen in the city center and some bus traffic will need to change their departure times.
– Be out in good time and stay updated online or via apps for new departures, Caroline Westlund wants to tell those who plan to go to and from Stockholm or who are going out and traveling.
According to the police, travel to, from and within Stockholm is affected – as well as travel to and from Arlanda and Bromma Airport, as well as Stockholm Central Station.
Also other major events
In addition to climate meetings, a number of major events are taking place around Stockholm, including Järva Week, Stockholm Marathon, student celebrations and the Navy’s 500th anniversary.
In addition, climate activists are planning new roadblocks.
– We are also preparing to be able to deal with opinions of various kinds, linked to the climate in particular during this time, says Caroline Westlund.
The police work closely with the organizers and the security police. According to Caroline Westlund, the many resources invested in the major climate meetings will not affect emergency operations.
– It is special to be able to host such large international meetings, but the structure, tactics and strategy for such a command are similar to many other commands. We prepare as we do for other initiatives and will ensure transport so that participants can get to the events safely and securely.