Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karner and ORF presented comprehensive security measures for Eurovision 2026 at Vienna’s Stadthalle. The security preparations include explosive detection dogs, personnel screenings, and drone defense systems to ensure the safety of the event.

Austrian authorities are taking no chances when it comes to securing Eurovision 2026 in Vienna. Interior Minister Gerhard Karner, together with ORF, conducted a media security briefing at the Wiener Stadthalle to showcase the extensive preparations being made for the upcoming contest.

Comprehensive Security Framework

The security concept encompasses multiple layers of protection, including specialized explosive detection dogs that will sweep venues and surrounding areas. Personnel working at the event will undergo thorough background checks and security screenings to ensure only authorized individuals have access to sensitive areas.

State Police Vice President Dieter Csefan says:

All colleagues who are on duty here daily – from the caterer to the sound engineer – are being vetted,.We’re talking about roughly 15,000 checks.

One of the most modern aspects of the security plan involves advanced drone defense systems designed to detect and neutralize any unauthorized aerial devices that could pose a threat to the venue, celebrities or attendees.

Confident Outlook

Minister Karner expressed confidence in Austria’s ability to deliver a safe and secure Eurovision experience. The comprehensive security measures demonstrate Austria’s commitment to hosting a successful contest while maintaining the highest safety standards for all participants, media, and audience members.

Interior Minister Karner says:

I am convinced that we will celebrate a peaceful and, above all, safe music festival in Austria in mid-May. We still have the second-highest terror alert level in Austria,

The Wiener Stadthalle, which will host Eurovision 2026, is already undergoing security assessments and preparations to ensure all protocols are in place well before the event takes place.


Sanjay (Sergio) joined esctoday.com in December 2006 as an editor. He was appointed as the Head of Press of ESCToday.com in 2011. Hereafter in 2016 he was promoted as the Head of International Relations & Communications at ESCToday. Sergio has covered the Eurovision Song Contest live 23 times since 2000, having worked for several international magazines and media outlets.