Eurovision's No-Fly Zone over Basel: A Safety Measure for the 2025 Contest
Prohibition of Drones during Eurovision Song Contest in Basel - Restriction on Drones during Eurovision Song Contest in Basel
Get ready to groove without any pesky drones ruining the vibe! Due to security concerns, the skies over Basel will be off-limits to drones from May 10 to 18, 2025, during the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC). The ESC final is set to take place May 17 at the St. Jakobshalle near the German border.
With multiple potential threats looming large—terror attacks, cyberattacks, or out-of-control protests—authorities and rescue and security organizations of the cantons of Basel-Stadt and Basel-Landschaft are readying themselves for a variety of situations. Matthias Stähli, co-director of operations, has emphasized that there are no specific indications of attack plans as of yet. No applications for demonstrations have been received either, with every application for a gathering to be individually checked.
The authorities are set to station a whopping 1,300 personnel, including representatives of the federal offices for cybersecurity, customs and border security, and the federal police, and 40 specialists from the army. Surveillance cameras will also be a common sight in the city.
- Basel
- ESC
- Eurovision Song Contest
- Drone
- Security Threats
- St. Jakobshalle
- Protests
Drones: A Significant Risk at Crowded Events
The use of drones at crowded events can pose considerable risks. These include unauthorized surveillance, disruption of operations, or even potential malicious activities. With the Eurovision Song Contest being a massive, international spectacle, minimizing these risks is of utmost importance. Furthermore, drones can potentially create hazards that put the safety of thousands of attendees at risk.
Safety Measures for Potential Threats
- General Security Precautions: Eurovision events are high-risk due to their international visibility and political context, making it crucial to have a robust security setup. Previous editions have seen protests and political debates, such as concerning Israel's participation, which can escalate tensions.
- Legal Framework: A new flag policy, permitting only legally permitted flags according to Swiss law (excluding those related to racism, violence, or banned groups), is aimed at balancing freedom of expression with maintaining an apolitical event environment. This policy ensures that safety and compliance with local law are prioritized while managing potential flashpoints.
- Venue Security: The St. Jakobshalle in Basel will host the event, and its organizers are known for implementing thorough security measures, such as access control, surveillance, and emergency response plans.
- Threat Assessments: Certain delegations might face specific security threats, requiring heightened security protocols, including close protection details, enhanced venue screening, and coordination with local law enforcement.
In summary, the drone ban and comprehensive safety measures are designed to safeguard both the participants and attendees of the Eurovision Song Contest, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience for all.
- The authorities in Basel have announced a no-fly zone for drones during the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) from May 10 to 18, 2025, to ensure safety and prevent potential malicious activities at the St. Jakobshalle.
- With various security threats looming, including terrorist attacks, cyberattacks, and out-of-control protests, Basel's law enforcement and rescue services are preparing for a range of possible situations during the ESC.
- The ban on drones reflects the concerns related to unauthorized surveillance, disruption of operations, and hazardous conditions at crowded events, particularly ones of international scale like the ESC.
- To address these threats, the authorities have devised several safety measures, including general security precautions, a legal framework for flag usage, venue security, and threat assessments for specific delegations.
- In terms of general security, the authorities aim to manage potential flashpoints from political debates, ensuring the event remains apolitical while respecting freedom of expression.
- The St. Jakobshalle in Basel, known for its robust security measures, will receive reinforcements in the form of 1,300 personnel, including federal cybersecurity, customs, and border security agents, as well as the federal police and 40 army specialists, and will be equipped with surveillance cameras.
