The Foreign Office has today issued a new travel warning for people traveling to Sweden during the Eurovision Song Contest. An alert issued this afternoon highlighted “massive” protests planned to hit Malmö.
Officials said multiple events could occur simultaneously and a collision was possible. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: “Demonstrations in Sweden are usually peaceful. In Malmö, the number of protests has increased during Eurovision week, especially on May 9th, when large protests are expected in the city centre. is likely to increase.”
“Clashes may occur if multiple protests on conflicting issues take place at the same time. Protests may block access routes. Please avoid demonstrations where possible and follow the advice of local authorities. For more information, please visit the Swedish Police website.
Officials have previously said that British travelers could be targeted by attackers in the current international climate. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said: “The Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Malmö from May 4th to May 11th. During this period, more people will flock to Malmö. “It may be affected by management systems or protests.” If you are planning to stay in Malmö or attend an event, please read our safety and security information.
“The possibility of terrorist attacks in Denmark cannot be ruled out. Attacks could be carried out indiscriminately, including in places frequented by foreigners. Danish authorities have succeeded in thwarting a number of planned attacks. , leading to numerous arrests.”
Directly related to Eurovision, the Deputy Director General said they are providing text alerts to keep people informed. “Eurovision will take place in Malmö, Sweden from May 4th to May 11th 2024. If you are traveling via or staying in Copenhagen to participate, here's what you need to know.”
Organizers of the Eurovision Song Contest say they reserve the right to remove Palestinian flags and pro-Palestinian symbols from the show in Sweden next week. The announcement comes amid heightened tensions over Israel's participation in the annual music competition over military operations against Hamas in the Gaza Strip. This year marks the seventh month.
Pro-Palestinian groups are expected to hold a large protest in Malmö to raise awareness of their cause. Michel Roverelli, communications director for the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes the show each year, said ticket buyers were only allowed to bring and display the national flags and rainbow flags representing the countries participating in the event. He said that flag.
She said the Geneva-based EBU reserves the right to “remove any other flags, symbols, clothing, objects, banners etc. that are used for the purpose of promoting television programmes”. She was reacting after Swedish newspaper Gothenburg Posten reported on Thursday that contest organizers had banned the use of Palestinian flags and political banners at the event.
Flags are often seen at contests where fans cheer on their country's acts and the people they support. The extravagant gala, which attracts hundreds of millions of spectators each year, will be held in Malmö in southern Sweden from May 7th to 11th, following last year's winner of Laureen's performance for “Tattoo.”
