Swedish police have confirmed that visiting police officers from Denmark and Norway will help maintain order and protect the public during the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 in Malmö.
This so-called “Nordic Force” will guard Malmö Arena — the epicenter of action during the Eurovision fortnight — along with public events and hotels. They will also be on hand during the many demonstrations that are expected to take place during festivities.
According to Swedish broadcaster SVT, “the police effort surrounding Eurovision in Malmö is expected to be one of the largest in Swedish history.”
“Thousands of police officers are involved and in Skåne [the region that is home to Malmö], police officers will not be granted any time off in connection with the event.”
Eurovision 2024 security: Swedish police discuss potential drone attacks
Per Engström, Sweden’s police chief, told SVT that police have brought in special technology and equipment that can counter incoming drones that could menace the contest.
“Of course drones can disrupt the event,” he says. “A no-fly zone will be established and with this system we can monitor it and ensure compliance…we have this equipment in other contexts as well.”
Sweden’s military are also involved in security measures, but they aren’t commenting on their involvement.
Engström doesn’t want people to overreact to the news that they’re preparing for all eventualities, whether that’s riotous demonstrations or complex attacks by international terror groups.
“We do not currently see a specific targeted threat against the event, but there is a threat against Sweden as a country and as a nation. That naturally includes Eurovision as well.”
