Norbert Kettner, Vienna’s tourism board chief executive, informed POLITICO that the city’s security measures are considerably more intense than when Eurovision was last held there in 2015.
“The security measures are extremely high. No major event in the free world can proceed without heightened security,” Kettner noted, emphasizing the city’s efforts to safeguard those celebrating and protesting peacefully.
He remarked that fan energy from various countries throughout the week has been “peaceful and moderate.”
Eurovision’s organizer, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), has consistently stated that the contest is apolitical and any broadcaster can participate if they adhere to EBU rules.
During a Saturday evening press conference, Austria’s public broadcaster (ORF) director general, Ingrid Thurnher, addressed protest concerns, affirming everyone’s right to an opinion as a democratic principle, but urged that the finals focus remain on the stage.
“We’d appreciate a brief period dedicated to music and the Eurovision Song Contest. Everyone’s voice should be heard, but tonight belongs to the musicians on this stage,” she said.
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