by Ilay Gaist Comment Closed




High threat level: Special forces, roadblocks, and security checks – the Swiss army is preparing for any scenario in Basel. Here’s how security will be managed at Eurovision 2025.

As Eurovision 2025 approaches rapidly, Switzerland is preparing for the event with an unprecedented level of security planning in the contest’s history. The city of Basel, set to host Eurovision from May 13th to May 17th, is expected to welcome around 500,000 tourists from across Europe. Alongside an audience of over 160 million television viewers worldwide, the country is taking no risks.

As part of preparations to prevent chemical, biological, or explosive threats, Stefan Hofer, spokesperson for the Swiss army, confirmed that the military would act “For the Canton of Basel.” According to Hofer:

“The reason for such cooperation must be of national or international importance or a matter of public interest. For this purpose, it must be proven that the event cannot be carried out with civilian means alone.”

Since the resources of civilian authorities, including Basel’s police force and Zurich Canton – which has declined to assist with security arrangements – have already been exhausted, the request for military assistance was approved.




The Army at Eurovision: What Will Actually Happen?

At an event of this scale, it is a monumental task requiring the involvement of special forces. A total of approximately 40 soldiers will be allocated, performing around 350 service days as part of their routine training – without placing additional strain on the canton’s budget, aside from expenses for food, lodging, and fuel. The military services provided will include:

  • ABC (Atomic, Biological, Chemical) inspections – hazardous materials found will be removed or neutralized.
  • Consultation and analysis on disarming explosives and pyrotechnics – including inspections and neutralization operations.
  • Controlled and systematic facility scans – early detection of threats or dangers.
  • Support through ambulances and rescue forces – ensuring the safety of participants and guests.

As stated by the army spokesperson:

“This concerns protection against dangers, security, and defense against chemical, biological, or explosive threats.”

Nationwide Police Effort: Reinforcements from Across Switzerland

Alongside the army, Basel’s police force will receive unprecedented reinforcements from across the country. The deployment will look as follows:

  • Northwest Switzerland: 243 officers
  • Western Switzerland: 191 officers
  • Eastern Switzerland: 90 officers
  • Central Switzerland: 68 officers
  • Zurich City Police: 60 officers
  • Ticino Canton: 30 officers

Zurich Canton will not send reinforcements due to the need to retain its forces locally, given Eurovision’s direct impact on its area.

In total, the police will deploy 1,297 officers for Eurovision. According to Florian Düblin, Secretary-General of the Conference of Cantonal Justice and Police Ministers:

“The information disclosed is classified. We particularly condemn the publication of figures related to force deployment.”

Basel’s police also clarified:

“As a rule, we do not disclose details about planned force levels.”




Tight Security Circle: Roadblocks, Barricades, and Rigorous Checks

The central venue for the event, St. Jakobshalle, will undergo nothing short of a security revolution. Visitors will face airport-style security checks – including body scans, handbag inspections, and identification procedures.

Additionally, “Awareness Teams” will be stationed – special teams available for anyone feeling unsafe or experiencing harassment.

On the roads, advanced anti-terror barricades manufactured by the German company “Silbitz Guss” will be deployed. Over 300 units of this type have already been sold to Switzerland, and Basel has purchased “several dozen” for securing the event.

Intelligence Services, Federal Police, and Counterterrorism: The Entire Nation Mobilizes

Security assistance extends beyond the army and local police. The Swiss Intelligence Service (NDB) is also operating behind the scenes – both before and during the event – in collaboration with various partners and organizations.

Although the NDB does not disclose its threat assessments, it emphasized that

“the general situation in the country is already classified as ‘elevated,’ with a focus on threats from extremist elements inspired by jihadist ideologies. […] Mass gatherings are potential targets for acts of extreme violence.”

According to a classified report.

The Federal Police (Fedpol) is also contributing and will take responsibility for national-level criminal investigations while coordinating information exchange processes with other federal authorities during emergencies.

“All necessary precautions are currently being taken to ensure we can respond swiftly in the event of a special or exceptional situation,” stated the organization.

Is This Just a Song Contest – or One of the World’s Most Tense Security Arenas?

Eurovision 2025 in Basel will not merely be a captivating musical spectacle – it will transform into a battlefield of unprecedented security preparations in Europe. Hundreds of police officers, dozens of soldiers, anti-terror barricades, and heavy entrance checks – all these illustrate how deeply Switzerland understands that this event, with hundreds of thousands of participants and immense global exposure, is not just a musical celebration but also a prime target for those seeking to cause harm. The message is clear: Basel is ready – with all the tools, forces, and determination – to make Eurovision not only a stage for music but also a symbol of uncompromising security.




Eurovision 2025: Dates and Time

The Eurovision Song Contest for 2025 will take place in May, as per tradition. Here are the exact dates:

For those wondering “What time will Eurovision 2025 air?” each event will begin at 21:00 CET.

Israel will compete in the second semi-final on Thursday, May 15th, hoping for a successful performance! If Israel makes it into the top ten songs of the semi-final, it will advance to the grand final broadcast on May 17th at 21:00 CET.



Eurovision 2025’s Venue

Eurovision 2025 will be held in Basel, Switzerland. This marks the third time Switzerland has hosted the competition, following previous events in 1956 in Lugano, and 1989 in Lausanne. The event will take place at St. Jakobshalle arena, which is expected to accommodate approximately 12,000 spectators per show. Choosing this venue ensures an impressive experience for both live audiences and viewers at home with excellent acoustics and advanced technical conditions.

Preparations for Eurovision 2025

Preparations for Eurovision 2025 are already underway. On January 28th, 2025, a draw determined which countries would perform in each semi-final, it’s a crucial event shaping the competition’s structure. Following this draw, ticket sales for Eurovision began on January 29th, allowing fans to secure their spots at the arena. Currently, each representative is rehearsing their performance in their respective countries ahead of May’s big stage show. In early May, all delegations will arrive in Basel to conduct organized rehearsals on the competition stage.




Side Events and Eurovision Parties

Leading up to Eurovision 2025, several side events and parties are planned across Europe. These events feature Eurovision contestants showcasing their songs ahead of the competition. For contestants, these gatherings offer an excellent opportunity to promote their songs, meet fans, and give interviews to various European media outlets.

These events include:

  • Eurovision in Concert – Amsterdam – April 5th

  • MancHagen – Manchester – April 11th–13th

  • PrePartyES – Madrid – April 17th–19th




The History of Eurovision

The Eurovision Song Contest began in 1956 as an attempt to unite Europe after World War II through music. Since then, it has evolved into one of the largest and most-watched musical events worldwide. Over the years, Eurovision has served as a stage for some of the world’s most successful artists like ABBA, Céline Dion, and Julio Iglesias.

Initially determined by jury votes alone, technological advancements have transformed voting methods over time. Today viewers can vote via apps and text messages while enjoying live broadcasts globally through digital platforms. Furthermore, technology enables more spectacular performances with advanced visual effects enriching viewers’ experience.




Impact of Eurovision

Eurovision has significantly influenced popular culture across Europe and beyond—many competing songs becoming international hits while fostering LGBTQ+ rights acceptance alongside broader cultural diversity appreciation.

Hosting Eurovision also presents substantial economic opportunities for host countries—attracting thousands of tourists creating temporary jobs alongside providing international exposure despite high hosting costs sparking public debates over feasibility periodically.

Source: NZZ.

Eurovision 2025: This will be Switzerland’s 65th participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. Switzerland joined the competition in 1956, being one of the seven founding countries, and has won three times over the years. Its most recent victory was at the last Eurovision in 2025, with Nemo’s song “The Code.” This win follows Switzerland’s previous victory in 1988 with the song “Ne partez pas sans moi,” performed by international singer Céline Dion.