Germany, Christmas markets are expensive - Security costs have increased by 44% over the last 3 years
Germany's Christmas markets, which attract many tourists and support local economies, are facing high security costs after a series of attacks. A national survey by the Federal Association for Town and Country Marketing found that costs for public events, including Christmas markets, have increased by an average of 44% over the past three years.
Security was tightened after a 2016 incident in which an Islamist terrorist rammed a truck into a market in Berlin. The deadly attack in the eastern city of Magdeburg last December has reignited concerns about security at the centuries-old event. Authorities said the gunman used emergency exits to enter the market, killing more than 200 people in a three-minute rampage.
“The requirements have become increasingly strict,” said a sector expert in Berlin, who has added large concrete barriers, entrance checks, video surveillance and trained security personnel.
The Interior Ministry has acknowledged the concerns. “Due to the high number of visitors, prime location and open access, Christmas markets taking place across the country pose a particular risk,” official sources explained.
Although cities usually receive subsidies from their budgets to cover the costs of organizing the markets, smaller municipalities and private organizers often cover the costs themselves. Local authorities are demanding that the 16 federal states take on the financial burden, arguing that this constitutes a fight against terrorism and does not fall within their competence.
Chancellor Friedrich Merz said last week that the federal government could not offer support, as it was the responsibility of state police forces, but added that he was following the matter carefully.
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