Security is being tightened for the Eurovision Song Contest in Sweden's third city Malmo, with large demonstrations planned to coincide with the event and the country already on high alert.

Malmö

Sweden is ramping up security measures for the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest, held in its third-largest city Malmo. The event is drawing global attention not just for its showcase of musical talent but also because of the significant protests expected to occur simultaneously. The authorities are preparing for a large number of demonstrators, estimated to range from 20,000 to 40,000 individuals from across Europe, voicing their opposition amidst the event.

This year's Eurovision comes amid controversy, particularly over Israel's participation during the ongoing conflict in Gaza. There have been direct threats against the artist representing Israel, prompting an even more stringent security response. The police are not taking any chances, with an extensive deployment of officers on the ground, reinforcements from Sweden, Denmark, and Norway, and the utilization of drones to ensure comprehensive oversight of the situation.

Alongside the security concerns, the Eurovision Song Contest is also seen as a platform for highlighting major world conflicts, with this year's entry from Ukraine drawing particular attention. Ukrainian artists Alyona Alyona and Jerry Hale will represent their country, with plans to auction off their trophy should they win, donating the proceeds to support the war effort. This gesture follows a precedent set by previous winners who successfully raised significant funds through a similar initiative.



Sweden prepares for Eurovision with heightened security

United by music. This year's Eurovision slogan couldn't be further from the truth. The annual feel-good celebration is shrouded by controversy over Israel's participation amid the war in Gaza. Direct threats have been made against the singer representing Israel and thousands are expected to gather in protest when the event starts. We count on 20 to 40 thousand demonstrators coming to Malmö, coming from all over Europe. It will be a very big protest. 100,000 visitors are expected in Sweden's southwest coast city of Malmö for the event, where the police authorised a karan burning demonstration on Friday. In this tense context, security is a top priority. There are a lot of police on the ground throughout Malmö. We receive reinforcements from all over Sweden, but also from Denmark and Norway. We also use drones so that we have a good overview of the event. Another major world conflict is expected to be at the heart of the event. Ukrainian group Alyona Alyona and Jerry Hale will be defending the blue and yellow flag. If you talk a lot about your situation, people hear you. So now I feel that people heard us until now. We are here to talk. If they win, the duo say they plan to sell their trophy and donate the proceeds to the war effort, like their predecessors who raised 900,000 euros in an auction on Facebook.

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