Vienna police brace for protests at Eurovision Song Contest final
Police expect up to 3,000 demonstrators and have planned drone bans, airport-style screenings and cyber defenses for the contest.
- Vienna police expect protests against Israel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, warning of "blockades and disruption attempts" as they prepare for one of their largest security operations.
- Tensions surrounding the war in Gaza prompted five national broadcasters, including Spanish heavyweight RTVE and Ireland's RTE, to boycott the contest following the October 2023 attacks on Israel by Hamas.
- Austrian authorities are implementing airport-style security at the contest venue and city hall, while the Federal Bureau will establish a New York task force to address cyber threats and drones will be banned within 1.5 km of sites.
- Senior police official Xenia Zauner warned of "blockades and disruptive actions, particularly on the day of the final," noting that Friday, May 15, is Nakba Day, which holds "great emotional significance for the pro-Palestine movement."
- While Austria's general "terrorism alert level" has remained at the second-highest notch for more than two years, Vienna police Vice President Dieter Csefan confirmed there is no specific threat against the contest, with up to 3,000 demonstrators expected.
56 Articles
56 Articles
If Sunday marks the start of Europe's greatest musical spectacle, an entire city is on alert. The authorities in Vienna leave nothing to chance for the ESC.
Boycott-hit 70th Eurovision celebrated amid high security
With provocative songs and glittering performances, the Eurovision Song Contest's festive 70th edition in Vienna next week will be held under tight security in the shadow of controversy sparked by Israel's participation.
InsideNoVA.com
Boycott-hit 70th Eurovision celebrated under high security
With provocative songs and glittering performances, the Eurovision Song Contest's festive 70th edition in Vienna next week will be held under tight security in the shadow of controversy sparked by Israel's participation.
Eurovision 2026: Austrian Police on Alert for One of the Biggest Security Challenges They Have Faced
Vienna police expect protests against Israel's participation to include "blockades and attempts to cause unrest"
The first rehearsals run at the Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna. The security measures are massive. And there is further discussion about the boycott of several countries because of the participation of Israel.
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