Basel is getting ready to host the Eurovision Song Contest, expecting an enormous turnout. While the focus is on celebration, serious security measures are being put in place. Concerns include terrorism, violent protests, cyberattacks, and mass panic. Almost eight million Swiss francs have been allocated for safety, aiming to ensure that the party atmosphere remains intact.
In preparation for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, security checkpoints similar to those at airports have been established at all venues in Basel. Strict controls are already being implemented even during the early setup stages. Employees are allowed to enter only through controlled gates.
About half of the stage construction has been completed. Around 200 tons of equipment have been installed so far. Managing this massive technical setup has proven to be a challenge, especially under the heavy security requirements.
Damaris Reist, Deputy Production Manager of the Eurovision Song Contest, explained that planning had to be intensified.
The planning effort is massively greater. We have to think much more ahead because we can’t bring in staff or additional equipment at short notice. For this, we need to accredit staff or check the material.
Political tensions influencing safety measures
The Eurovision Song Contest traditionally aims to unite Europe through music. However, current global tensions have added complexity to the event in Basel. Both Ukraine and Israel will participate, raising potential security concerns.
Aurore Chatard, Head of Security for the Eurovision Song Contest, outlined the broader security context:
Of course, we take all geopolitical issues into account. Added to this is Basel’s special geographical location, right next to France and Germany, as well as the EuroAirport in the border triangle.
Large numbers of visitors are expected to cross borders into Switzerland. Experiences from demonstrations at last year’s contest in Sweden have also been incorporated into Basel’s security planning.
Extensive resources allocated for security
The canton of Basel-Stadt has planned to spend nearly eight million Swiss francs on ensuring the safety of all visitors. Around 1,300 police officers will be deployed during the Eurovision Song Contest, with about half of them coming from other Swiss cantons.
Additionally, around 40 NBC (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical) soldiers will be stationed to provide specialist expertise in case of exposure to hazardous materials.
Stephanie Eymann, Security Director for Basel-Stadt, stressed that the atmosphere in the city should not feel militarised:
There will be no army presence in the city. You’ll see a few more uniforms, with the logos of various cantons.
The goal is to maintain a subjective sense of security, without creating a lock-down or a security state.
Basel is determined to keep the Eurovision Song Contest festive and welcoming despite the international situation. Careful planning, massive security efforts, and cooperation across cantons aim to ensure that both visitors and residents can celebrate in peace.
The Eurovision Song Contest in Basel is scheduled to begin in about a month, on the dates 13, 15, and 17 May 2025. Half a million fans are expected to arrive, ready to enjoy music, festivities, and a celebration of European unity — all under vigilant but discreet security measures.
Source: SRF
Photo source: BBC
