Many factors make the situation difficult, says an expert at the Swedish National Defense University.
Securing the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö next week is becoming a huge effort, for which the Swedish police will also receive reinforcements from Denmark and Norway.
Up to 100,000 visitors are coming to Viisu in a security situation where a terrorism expert of Magnus Ranstorp together are the ingredients of a disaster.
– Many different factors make the situation difficult, says Ranstorp from the Swedish National Defense University.
See the end of the story for the authorities’ tips for those arriving in Malmö.
“The worst place for Eurovision”
First of all, the participation of Israel, which is waging a war in Gaza, has aroused fierce opposition, and a lot of Palestinian supporters are expected in Malmö.
In addition, the visas are arranged in a situation where the threat of terrorism is already high in Sweden. Last year, the terrorist threat level was raised from third to fourth, i.e. to the second highest level.
According to Ranstorp, the host city Malmö also plays a role.
– It is probably the worst place to hold the Eurovision Song Contest in Sweden, considering the events in Gaza and the tensions between Israel and the Palestinians, he says.
Many people of Palestinian background live in the city, and according to Ranstorp, there have also been problems related to anti-Semitism for a long time.
No concrete threat
The organizers and authorities have been working to secure the visas since the end of summer, says Ulf Nilsson, security manager of the city of Malmö.
– There is no concrete threat to Malmö or the Eurovision Song Contest, he says.
The security measures are visible to Viusu fans at least as a strong presence of the police in the city. Some of the police have reinforced weapons at their disposal, which are only used in special situations.
Large demonstrations can be expected during the fifth week, at least on Thursday and Saturday. Ranstorp estimates that the demonstrations in Malmö may become partly restless.
Terrorism expert Magnus Ranstorp from the Swedish National Defense University urges fans to be a little vigilant, but to enjoy everything regardless.
Spokesperson for the Swedish Security Police Karin Lutz recommends following the information of the authorities and organizers and following the given instructions.
In the arena and at side events, the public should be prepared for, for example, a bag ban.
Security manager of the city of Malmö Ulf Nilsson emphasizes that safety is created together: if you see something strange, you should tell the police or the security guard.