The Eurovision, which starts today, is overshadowed by the threat of terrorism – This is how Sweden is preparing – 2024-05-06 04:26:11

In Malmö, Sweden, preparations for the Eurovision Song Contest are in full swing. Up to 100,000 visitors from around the world are expected in the city.

However, the happy music festival is overshadowed by the increased threat of terrorism. Sweden’s security authorities have estimated that the level of the terrorist threat to the country is at the second highest level.

– The situation in Sweden has been difficult especially since last summer. The burning of Korans caused many extremist organizations such as Isis and Al-Qaeda to urge their supporters to attack Sweden, terrorism expert Magnus Ranstorp commented to Iltalehti.

Windows95man represents Finland at Eurovision in Malmö. Due to the increased terrorist threat, the security situation has sparked a lot of discussion in advance. PHOTOGRAPHER/EBU

Ranstorp works as a research director at the Swedish National Defense University.

Several Swedish media previously reported that the Swedish police have granted permission for Korans to be burned during Lent. According to Ranstrop, this will arouse anger and opposition.

Security measures are very strict in Malmö and the police are heavily armed. Sweden has also received help from the Norwegian and Danish police forces for five weeks.

– The police have drones at their disposal, which are used to monitor the event areas of the visas. The street photo shows armed policemen, but there are also policemen dressed in civilian clothes. Riot police are also ready if the situation gets out of hand.

Israel and Gaza

Israel’s participation in Eurovision has sparked a furious debate on social media. The country is represented by a 20-year-old Eden Golan with a song Hurricane.

Israel’s military actions in Gaza have sparked protests, which have demanded, among other things, the exclusion of the country from the singing competition.

According to Aftonbladet, demonstrations in support of Palestine are planned for Lent week. There will also be a demonstration in support of Israel. There is a small Jewish minority in Malmö, but according to Ranstorp, there is anti-Semitism in the city.

According to Ranstorp, the atmosphere at demonstrations can quickly turn very ugly. Although the demonstrations are expected to be peaceful in principle, according to the expert, there can also be a small group of people who are ready to use force as well.

– It is good to avoid demonstrations if the situation heats up and you need to leave the place quickly.

Israeli authorities have urged their citizens to avoid traveling to Eurovision. According to the terrorism expert, the security authorities are taking care of the Israeli delegation.

– Activists are trying to find out where he (Eden Golan) is staying and prevent him from entering the arena, Ranstorp estimates.

The competition will be held at Malmö Areena, where you can only bring flags of countries participating in Eurovision and rainbow flags. Ranstorp believes that the activists are trying to get into the arena in some way to bring their message.

– It’s a golden opportunity. It is an important singing competition that the whole world watches.

However, the expert has a comforting message for those traveling to Viusi.

– Enjoy and don’t worry about the security situation. You have to be alert, but not panic, sums up Ranstorp.