Euro 2012 safety and security report - SOS International

Euro 2012 safety and
security report
– SOS International
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List of contents
Terms of reference 4
Overview 4
Euro 2012 Fixtures 5
Risk matrix for Poland 6
Risk Matrix for the Ukraine 6
Euro 2012 Host Cities 7
Pre-travel information 8
Entry information 8
Airport information 8
Security issues 11
Crime 11
Areas of concern 11
Civil unrest 12
Football hooliganism 12
Terrorism 12
Seeking assistance 13
Security advice 13
Getting around 14
Air 14
Rail 14
Road 14
Taxi 14
Further information 15
Health concerns 15
Money 16
Important contact details 17
Emergency numbers 17
Diplomatic representation 17
3

4 Euro 2012 safety and security report
Terms of reference
This report is a safety and security report for the
UEFA European Football Championship to be hosted
by Poland and Ukraine between 8 June and 1 July
2012, current as of 15 May 2012. The report was
compiled for SOS International by analysts and security
specialists at red24. The information has been
sourced through a variety of channels, both open and
privileged, and addresses the threats to visitors from
crime, civil unrest, hooliganism and terrorism. It also
offers security advice, as well as providing information
on travel options, health concerns and facilities, money
and diplomatic representation.
Overview
The 2012 UEFA European Football Championship,
commonly referred to as Euro 2012, will be hosted by
Poland and Ukraine between 8 June and 1 July 2012.
It is the world’s second-largest football tournament
after the World Cup and will attract over 500,000 fans
and a global television audience. Sixteen national
teams will compete in some 31 matches, which will be
held in Warsaw, Gdansk, Poznan, Wroclaw, Kiev, Lviv,
Kharkiv and Donetsk.
The security risks in Poland and Ukraine are not
assessed to be significant and it is likely that the vast
majority of fans will have an enjoyable and incidentfree
visit. Nonetheless, a number of security threats
do exist.
The primary threat emanates from petty criminality.
Although increased numbers of police and heightened
surveillance will mitigate the risk to a degree, the high
number of foreign visitors and high density of spectators
will provide opportunities for a range of criminal
elements. Pickpocketing and bag-snatching are the
main concerns but clients are also advised to exercise
vigilance in terms of ticketing, tourism, accommodation
and identity fraud. Incidents of mugging, robbery and
assault are also possible issues and alcohol-fuelled
and drug-related anti-social behaviour is a particular
concern after dark.
A further concern is the risk of demonstrations, protests
and civil disorder. The tournament will provide an
international stage for a range of activists to publicise
their various causes, and some individuals or organised
groups are likely to attempt to gain publicity in
unlawful ways. In particular, unauthorised protest gatherings
could result in incidents of unrest and transport
disruptions prior to and during the tournament.
In addition, there is credible threat of violence between
rival football fans at the Euro 2012 tournament. Both
the Ukrainian and Polish authorities have stated that
there will be a ‘zero tolerance’ approach to incidents
of football-related unrest and their respective security
forces can be expected to be firm in dealing with
disturbances. Nonetheless, both host countries have
an established problem with football hooliganism.
Significant unrest occurs sporadically at domestic
matches and Polish supporters initiated a riot in a
friendly match against Lithuania in March 2011. Fatalities
have occurred in fighting between rival supporters
in both countries in the past and there is a history of
neo-Nazi involvement in football-related violence. As
such, there is a credible and significant concern that
such elements will seek to initiate violent confrontations
during the event. These may involve supporters
from rival countries and the nature of football-related
unrest means that such disturbances carry significant
incidental risks.
Euro 2012 also faces a theoretical terrorist threat.
Although no specific intelligence has emerged thus far
to suggest a terrorist attack is being planned to target
or coincide with the tournament, the threat from terrorism
has cast a shadow over international sporting
events since Palestinian radicals attacked the Munich
Olympics in 1972. Although the nature and scale of
terrorism has since evolved, the threat remains. Euro
2012 will attract large numbers of spectators, foreign
dignitaries and a global television audience. As
such, any terrorist incident before or during the event,
regardless of size or duration, will likely have a large
impact. Both Poland and Ukraine have played a role in
military interventions in Iraq or Afghanistan and Poland
has been explicitly threatened by Islamist militants in
the recent past. Although the probability of an attack
on Euro 2012 is assessed to be low, the event will be
potentially attractive to some Islamist groups and individuals,
providing them with an opportunity to cause
mass casualties and/or significant disruption in order
to publicise and further their causes.

Euro 2012 Fixtures
Date Venue Details Time
Fri 8 June Warsaw Poland v Greece 19.00
Fri 8 June Wroclaw Russia v Czech Republic 21.45
Sat 9 June Kharkiv Netherlands v Denmark 19.00
Sat 9 June Lviv Germany v Portugal 21.45
Sun 10 June Gdansk Spain v Italy 19.00
Sun 10 June Poznan Rep of Ireland v Croatia 21.45
Mon 11 June Donetsk France v England 19.00
Mon 11 June Kiev Ukraine v Sweden 21.45
Tue 12 June Wroclaw Greece v Czech Republic 19.00
Tue 12 June Warsaw Poland v Russia 21.45
Wed 13 June Lviv Denmark v Portugal 19.00
Wed 13 June Kharkiv Netherlands v Germany 21.45
Thu 14 June Poznan Italy v Croatia 19.00
Thu 14 June Gdansk Spain v Rep of Ireland 21.45
Fri 15 June Kiev Sweden v England 19.00
Fri 15 June Donetsk Ukraine v France 21.45
Sat 16 June Wroclaw Czech Republic v Poland 21.45
Sat 16 June Warsaw Greece v Russia 21.45
Sun 17 June Kharkiv Portugal v Netherlands 21.45
Sun 17 June Lviv Denmark v Germany 21.45
Mon 18 June Gdansk Croatia v Spain 21.45
Mon 18 June Poznan Italy v Rep of Ireland 21.45
Tue 19 June Donetsk England v Ukraine 21.45
Tue 19 June Kiev Sweden v France 21.45
Quarter Final Timetable / Schedule / Fixtures
Thu 21st June A - Warsaw 1st Group A v 2nd Group B 21.45
Fri 22nd June B - Gdansk 1st Group B v 2nd Group A 21.45
Sat 23rd June C - Donetsk 1st Group C v 2nd Group D 21.45
Sun 24th June D - Kiev 1st Group D v 2nd Group C 21.45
Semi Final Timetable / Schedule / Fixtures
Wed 27th June Donetsk Winner A v Winner C 21.45
Thu 28th June Warsaw Winner B v Winner D 21.45
Final
Sun 1st July Kiev 21.45
5

6 Euro 2012 safety and security report
Risk matrix for Poland
Overall risk rating
Overall Medium red24 rates this country as medium risk. Security threats exist but their
impact is limited and not widespread. Caution and awareness are still advised.
Risk rating breakdown
Crime Medium A resonable possibility of crime affecting the individual, involving mainly
minor or petty crime. Violent crime is less likely.
Terrorism Low Little threat of terrorism.
Conflict Low No current conflict and little threat of conflict occuring.
Political Low Stable political system; opposition to government policies only results in
minor sporadic, mostly non-violent, civil unrest.
Kidnap Low Minimal kidnapping activity.
Infrastructure Low Developed or satisfactory infrastructure across the country.
Risk matrix for Ukraine
Overall risk rating
Overall Medium red24 rates this country as medium risk. Security threats exist but their
impact is limited and not widespread. Caution and awareness are still advised.
Risk rating breakdown
Crime Medium A resonable possibility of crime affecting the individual, involving mainly minor
or petty crime. Violent crime is less likely.
Terrorism Low Little threat of terrorism.
Conflict Low No current conflict; however, ongoing simmering tensions between ethnic
Russian and Ukrainians which can be exacerbated by Russian intervention in
the region.
Political Medium Polarised political enviroment with sporadic civil unrest.
Kidnap Low Minimal reported kidnapping activity to both locals and visitors.
Infrastructure Medium Main cities and towns have sound infrastructure, but limited in rural areas.

Euro 2012 Host Cities
Posnań
Gdańsk
Wroctaw
Warsaw
Lviv
Kiev
Kharkiv
Donetsk
7

8 Euro 2012 safety and security report
Pre-travel information
Entry information
Poland
Poland is a signatory member of the Schengen Agreement
and as such, all member country nationals of
are permitted to travel to Poland without any entry/exit
formalities on a Schengen visa. This is valid for stays
of up to 90 days within a six-month period. EU nationals
can enter on a valid national passport or national
identity card. All other nationalities are required to present
a valid passport with at least three months validity
beyond the intended date of departure and must be in
possession of a return ticket, sufficient funds for the
duration of their visit and have valid travel insurance.
Ukraine EU and US nationals, as well as citizens from
Andorra, Argentina, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus,
Brazil, Canada, Estonia, Georgia, Hong Kong, Iceland,
Israel, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Liechtenstein,
Moldova, Norway, Paraguay, Serbia, South Korea,
Switzerland, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan do not require
visas for stays of less than 90 days. All other nationals
need to acquire a visa from their relevant Ukrainian
consulate or embassy. All visitors’ passports must be
valid for three months beyond the date of travel.
Visitors also require evidence of a return ticket.
Airport information
Poland
Airport security in the Poland is in line with standards
in Western Europe.
Fryderyk Chopin Airport (WAW) is located 13km
from Warsaw city centre. Formerly known as Okecie
Airport, it is Poland’s busiest and is served by Aeroflot,
Aerosvit, Air France, British Airwars, KLM, Lufthansa,
Finnair, LOT, Norwegian Air Shuttle, Wizz Air and
Scandinavian Airlines among others. The airport
services international flights to and from London, Chicago,
Frankfurt, Moscow, Paris, Amsterdam, Bergen,
Oslo, Copenhagen, Stockholm, Malmo, Stavanger
and Warsaw. Domestic destinations include Wroclaw,
Gdansk, Krakow and Poznan.
Terminal A handles both international and domestic
flights. It has a restaurant, several cafes, duty-free
shops, ATMs and bureau de change facilities. The
facility is prone to delays and overcrowding.
Visitors are advised to use only licensed taxis, hired
from the appropriate taxi rank. This is located just outside
the arrivals hall. These taxis usually display tariffs
in the window of the vehicle and most are metered.
If the taxi does not have a meter, agree on the fare
before setting off. Some international business-class
hotels in Warsaw also provide limousine taxi services
that can be pre-booked. A number of hotels also
operate an airport transfer services between 08:30
and 18:00 (local time). The journey from the airport to
Warsaw city centre usually takes between 20 and 30
minutes. Busses also run from the airport to the city
centre. Buses 148, 175 and 188 operate between the
airport and the city until 23:00. The N32 night bus runs
after 23:00.
Gdansk Lech Walesa Airport (GDN) is located 12km
north west of Gdansk city centre. A new terminal
(Terminal 2) was opened in April 2012 ahead of Euro
2012 and facilities include restaurants, cafes, ATM
machines and an executive lounge. The airport services
regular international flights to Berlin, Frankfurt,
Hamburg, Munich, London, Oslo, Amsterdam, Bergen,
Gothenburg, Malmo, Stockholm and Copenhagen.
There are also regular domestic flights to Warsaw,
Poznan and Wroclaw. A taxi rank is situated outside
the passenger terminal and journeys from the airport
to the city take around 20 minutes. Car rental agencies
are also located at the airport.

John Paul II International Airport Krakow-Balice (KRK)
is located 11km west of Krakow city centre. The airport
is serviced by Aeroflot, Air Berlin, EasyJet, EuroLOT,
Lufthansa and Norwegian Air Shuttle, among others,
and there are regular international flights to Berlin,
Frankfurt, Munich, Amsterdam, Bergen, Oslo, Stockholm,
Copenhagen and London. Domestic destinations
include Warsaw, Poznan and Warsaw. The airport
itself is small but well equipped and facilities include
a restaurant and cafe, bureau de change, duty-free
shops and car rental outlets. Terminal 1 manages
international flights; Terminal 2 deals with domestic
flights. A shuttle bus operates between the two terminals.
Taxis are available outside the arrivals building
and the journey to the city centre takes approximately
20 minutes. A train service also runs from the airport
to the city centre; the station is located 200m from
Terminal 1 and can be reached by airport shuttle bus.
Tickets can be bought on the train or from an automated
machine near the centre exit of Terminal 1. In
addition, busses also run from the airport to the city
centre; the bus stop is located to the right of the arrivals
terminal and buses 208, 292 and 902 take approximately
45 minutes to reach downtown Krakow.
Poznan-Lawica Henryk Wieniawski Airport (POZ) is
located 5km west of Poznan city centre. The airport
serves Lufthansa, Euro LOT, Ryanair, Scandinavian
Airlines, Norwegian Air Shuttle and Wizz Air and
operates regular international flights to and from
Munich, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, London, Copenhagen,
Stockholm and Oslo. Domestic flights serve Warsaw,
Gdansk, Katowice and Krakow. Facilities at the airport
include bars, restaurants, cafes, duty-free shops, an
executive lounge, ATMs, banks, a bureau de change
and an information desk. A taxi rank can be found outside
the arrivals area and the journey to the city centre
takes approximately 25 minutes. Buses 59 and 48 also
run to the city centre every 25-30 minutes; the journey
takes around 35 minutes. In addition, an express
line train service also runs from the airport to Poznan
Glowny, the city’s central station; the journey takes approximately
20 minutes.
Ukraine
Airport security in Ukraine is below Western norms
and can be described as adequate. Travellers should
be aware that there have been incidents of luggage
theft by baggage handlers. red24 advises visitors to
travel with hand luggage if practically possible and to
ensure valuables and essential items are kept on their
person at all times.
Boryspil International Airport (KBP) is Ukraine’s main
international airport. Located approximately 38km east
of Kiev city centre, the airport is served by Aeroflot,
Aerosvit, Air France, Lufthansa, KLM, British Airways,
Air Baltic, Estonia Air and Ukrainian International Airlines
among others. The airport services international
flights to and from Moscow, St Petersburg, London,
Hamburg, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich, Stockholm,
Paris, Amsterdam, Tallinn, Riga and Warsaw. Domestic
destinations include Donetsk, Kharkiv and Lviv.
Terminal B is the airport’s main terminal and it serves
all international and domestic flights. It has recently
undergone extensive renovations and facilities include
a number of shops, restaurants, cafes and bars, as
well as travel agencies, banks and bureaux de change.
The terminal also provides a business centre, luggage
centre and free Wi-Fi.
Terminal D is scheduled to deal with arriving and departing
fan charter flights for the duration of Euro 2012.
Nearing completion, this new terminal will be modern
and is anticipated to have facilities similar in variety
and standard to those found in Terminal B.
Taxis are available in front of Terminal B. Visitors are
advised to avoid unregistered private taxis and should
use those vehicles that display company colours and
phone numbers. Meters are not always used; negotiate
fares in advance of setting off. The journey to Kiev city
centre takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour.
Two express bus companies (Polit and Atass) also run
services to the city centre; these can be crowded but
are generally safe.
Kiev (Zhuliany) International Airport (IEV) is located
approximately 15km south west of central Kiev. Although
once a primarily domestic airport, a number of
low-cost international airlines now operate from the
facility, including Wizz Air, Wizz Air Ukraine and Sky
Wings and the airport now services flights to and from
Athens, London-Luton, Cologne-Bonn, Dortmund,
Treviso and Valencia. Domestically, UTair will shortly
begin flights to Donetsk, Kharkiv and Lviv. Security and
facilities at the airport are adequate. Taxis are available
at the airport. There is also a trolleybus service to
the Kiev city centre, which takes around 40 minutes.
Donetsk International Airport (DOK) is located approximately
18km north west of Donetsk city centre.
The airport services regular flights to Kiev, as well as
to Moscow, St Petersburg, Munich, Barcelona and Istanbul.
A new terminal complex has been built for Euro
9

10 Euro 2012 safety and security report
2012 and baggage processing and security equipment
is anticipated to meet modern European standards.
Check-in facilities for domestic and international passengers
in the new terminal are located on the first and
second floors. Facilities in the new complex will include
a VIP lounge, a hotel, duty-free shops, ATMs, banks
and bureaux de change, as well as a variety of cafes,
restaurants and bars, a first-aid post and car rental outlets.
The most convenient way to travel from Donetsk
Airport is by taxi. Busses also run from the airport to
Donetsk city centre and journeys take approximately
20-30 minutes.
Kharkiv International Airport (HRK) is located approximately
15km south east of the city centre. A new terminal
building has been built for Euro 2012 and facilities
now include a business lounge in the international
departures hall, post office, Wi-Fi access, banking and
bureau de change, cafes, restaurants and bars and
car rental agencies. The journey from the airport to
Kharkiv city centre will take approximately 30 minutes.
Official taxis are available at the airport terminal; they
can be identified by their taxi airport livery.
Lviv Danylo Halytskyi International Airport (LWO)
is located approximately 6km south west of Lviv city
centre. In preparation for Euro 2012, the airport has
undergone a significant expansion and modernisation
project, including the building of a new terminal. This
opened in March 2012. The airport services regular
flights to Kiev, as well as to Warsaw, Moscow,
Munich, Vienna and Istanbul. New routes to Wroclaw
and Krakow are also scheduled to commence in May
2012. Taxis are available at the airport and fares
should be agreed in advance, as they are not always
metered. Trolleybus 9 also operates every 15 minutes
from the airport to the Lviv city centre.

Security issues
Crime
The threat from crime in both Poland and Ukraine is
rated as MEDIUM and crime rates in both countries
may increase for the duration of the Euro 2012 tournament
in June and July. The primary threat to visitors to
both countries emanates from petty crime. Incidents of
pick-pocketing, bag-snatching and theft of unattended
items are frequently reported in large urban areas
such as Warsaw and Kiev. The threat is particularly
elevated around public transport hubs (train, metro and
bus stations), at major tourist sights, busy markets and
near major hotels, banks and ATMs. Foreign nationals
are often targeted due to their perceived wealth.
Visitors to Poland and Ukraine should also be aware
that scam artists are known to operate a multitude of
scams; caution and vigilance should be exercised accordingly.
One well-known and frequently used scam
involves a wallet or money dropped in front of a tourist.
The scam artist then ‘finds the money’ and asks if it
belongs to the target or offers to share the money. An
accomplice subsequently approaches, claims that the
wallet is his and accuses the victim of trying to steal
their money. The con artists will then either they ask
for a bribe in exchange for not informing the police
or they ask to see the tourist’s wallet, grab it and run
away. If confronted with this scam, visitors are advised
not to engage the perpetrators in any conversation, but
to walk away immediately. ATM and credit card fraud
is also on the increase and travellers are advised only
to use ATMs in secure locations (such as inside a bank
or at major hotels), to keep an eye on their credit and
debit cards and to use them only in reputable establishments.
Incidents of criminals impersonating police
officers and harassing or robbing tourists also continue
to be reported in Ukraine; visitors are reminded that
legitimate police officers will have, and are obliged to
show, proper identification.
Although violence crime directed at foreign nationals in
both Poland and Ukraine is rare, physical attacks and
incidents of intimidation are occasionally reported. The
threat is elevated in major urban areas, particularly
night when alcohol- and drug-fuelled anti-social behaviour
increases. Incidents of far-right, neo-Nazi and
‘skinhead’ violence have also increased in Poland and
Ukraine in recent years. Violence is directed primarily
at racial and religious minorities and members of the
lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and trans-gender community
but attacks and incidents of intimidation can be indiscriminate.
In addition, visitors to Poland and Ukraine
should also exercise caution when drinking with, or
meeting, new acquaintances in entertainment venues;
there have been instances of foreign nationals being
drugged and then robbed or sexually assaulted.
Areas of concern
Warsaw
Although regarded as increasing gentrified, the Praga
district in eastern Warsaw carries an elevated criminal
threat and should be avoided late at night. Petty criminality
is a significant concern in central Warsaw after
dark, particularly in the vicinity of the main railway station,
on the city’s metro system, at busy markets and in
tourist areas.
Gdansk
Avoid the city’s shipyards and train station after dark.
Poznan
Visitors should avoid the low-income areas of Wilda,
Jezyce and Grunwald after dark. Alcohol- and drug-related
violence can also be of concern around the main
square in Poznan’s Old Town.
Wroclaw
Crime levels are elevated in the low-income neighbourhoods
on the periphery of the city.
Kiev
Petty criminals and scam artists are active in crowded
marketplaces and on public transport. Crime rates are
also elevated around international hotels and key tourist
sights such as Saint Sophia’s Cathedral, Saint Michael’s
Cathedral and the Pechersk Lavra monastery.
Crime rates are also heightened along the popular
Andriyivski Uzviz Street and in the vicinity of bars and
restaurants, as well as in the underground passage at
Maidan Nezalezhnosti (Independence Square).
Donestk
Crime levels are of concern in the low-income neighbourhoods
to the west and east of the city centre. In
particular, visitors are urged to avoid the Kuybyshevsky
Rayon and Kalininsky Rayon areas.
Lviv
Crime is elevated in the low-income neighbourhoods
on the city’s periphery.
Kharkiv
Crime levels are heightened in the vicinity of Kharkiv-
Passazhyrsky railway station, Tsentralny Avtovokzal
central bus station and around the city’s metro stations
and other public transport hubs.
11

12 Euro 2012 safety and security report
Civil unrest
The threat from politically motivated civil unrest in
Poland is assessed to be low. Most protests and
marches pass peacefully and are well policed. Most
strike action is small-scale in nature and concerns
individual companies rather than entire employment
sectors. Occasional clashes between extremist groups
do occur in the country and a neo-Nazi element
continues to carry out arson attacks on synagogues,
Jewish cultural centres, World War II monuments and
Israeli- and Jewish-linked businesses.
The threat from politically motivated civil unrest in
Ukraine is assessed to be medium. The country has
a history of large-scale civil unrest linked to political
developments, as well as deeply entrenched social,
ethnic and linguistic divisions between the broadly
pro-Western west of the country and pro-Russian
east. Pro-Russian elements and far-right nationalist
groups such as Svoboda (Freedom), Bratstvo (Brotherhood)
and Tryzub (Trident) occasionally try to exploit
this divide and stage protests outside Parliament and
government buildings. Such protests may take place
on the anniversary of the Great Patriotic War on 22
June and clashes between rival demonstrators are a
credible concern in Kiev and Lviv.
Socio-economic protests also take place in Kiev and
various groups regularly demonstrate over wages,
pensions, working conditions and inflation. Given
that the current economic outlook is uncertain across
Europe, an upsurge in protest action and associated
unrest cannot be discounted ahead of Euro 2012.
The political situation in Ukraine is also currently
volatile. On 12 May 2012, at least 2,000 opposition
supporters demonstrated in Kyiv to demand the
release of opposition leader and former prime minister
Yulia Tymoshenko. Tymoshenko is currently serving
a seven-year sentence for charges related to impropriety
while in office. Tymoshenko also faces charges
relating to tax evasion. Opposition supporters believe
both charges are politically motivated and have been
directed by the current government of President Viktor
Yanukovych. Protests against Timoshenko’s conviction
and against the government of Yanukovych have
persisted since October 2011 and are likely to escalate
head of Tymoskenko’s latest trial in May and ahead of
parliamentary elections in October. Such demonstrations
may attract significant participation and have
the potential to cause significant disruption in Kiev;
in particular, protests are likely to centre on Maidan
Nezalehnosti (Independence Square). Ukrainian se-
curity forces are also not averse to using robust crowd
control tactics and as such, clashes between demonstrators
and the security forces are a distinct possibility.
Such clashes pose an incidental risk to bystanders.
Football hooliganism
There is credible threat of violence between rival
football fans at the Euro 2012 tournament. Both the
Ukrainian and Polish authorities have stated that
there will be a ‘zero tolerance’ approach to incidents
of football-related unrest and their respective security
forces can be expected to be firm in dealing with disturbances
between rival fans. Nonetheless, both host
countries have an established problem with football
hooliganism. Significant unrest occurs sporadically
at domestic matches and Polish supporters initiated
a riot in a friendly match against Lithuania in March
2011. Fatalities have occurred in fighting between rival
supporters in both countries in the past and there is
a history of neo-Nazi involvement in football-related
violence. As such, there is a credible and significant
concern that such elements will seek to initiate violent
confrontations during the 2012 tournament. These may
involve supporters from rival countries and the nature
of football-related unrest means that such disturbances
carry significant incidental risks. Matches that may
trigger a credible risk of violence and/or hooliganism
between opposing fans include the Russia v Czech
Republic match on 8 June in Wroclaw; the Poland v
Russia match on 12 June in Warsaw; the Holland v
Germany match in Kharkiv on 13 June; and Ukraine
v England match on 19 June in Donetsk. ‘Fan zones’
near the Palace of Science and Culture in Warsaw and
at Maidan Nezalezhnosti in Kiev carry a particularly
high risk of clashes between intoxicated rival football
supporters.
Terrorism
The terrorism threat in Poland and Ukraine is
assessed to be low. Terrorism-related incidents in both
countries are rare and the four coordinated bombings
in the south eastern Ukrainian town of Dnipropetrovsk
on 27 April which left 30 people injured, were thought
to be the work of criminal elements rather than
terrorists.
Nonetheless, the terrorist threat will likely increase
ahead of, and during, Euro 2012. The threat from terrorism
has cast a shadow over international sporting
events since Palestinian radicals attacked the Munich
Olympics in 1972. Although the scale and nature of
terrorism has since evolved, the threat remains. Euro
2012 will attract large numbers of spectators, foreign

dignitaries and a huge television audience. As such,
any terrorist incident during the tournament, regardless
of size or duration, will likely have a large impact.
As a consequence, the event is theoretically attractive
to a wide range of terrorist groups and individuals,
providing them with an opportunity to cause mass
casualties and/or significant disruption to publicise and
further their causes. In addition, Poland specifically is
regarded as a potential target for Islamist militants. Al
Qaeda’s leader Ayman al Zawahiri has called for attacks
on Poland in revenge for its military involvement
in both Afghanistan and Iraq.
However, there is currently no specific intelligence
suggesting a terrorist attack is being planned to coincide
with the Euro 2012 tournament. There are also
no known domestic or international Islamist terrorist
organisations present in either country, nor is there
significant Muslim populations from which Islamist elements
could potentially draw support. As such, a coordinated
‘spectacular’ mass casualty attack by multiple
individuals is assessed to be low probability, though
an attack by a ‘lone wolf’ cannot be ruled out. Furthermore,
although the Polish and Ukrainian security and
intelligence forces have little experience in combating
terrorism, the counter-capabilities of both countries are
thought to be satisfactory and security measures will
be significantly increased ahead of the tournament.
Seeking assistance
The police in Poland are generally professional and
approachable and corruption is no longer an issue.
Many police officers speak German and an increasing
number speak English. Visitors should be aware that
police in Poland do operate a ‘drunk tank’ system and
will detain unruly intoxicated people until they
are sober.
The police in Ukraine are less capable. They are ill
equipped and understaffed. Corruption remains an
issue and few police officers speak English. If visitors
require assistance, they are advised to contact SOS
International or red24 for assistance. Visitors are also
advised to carry their passports at all times as police
identification checks are common.
Security advice
Below is a list of security tips to ensure the safety of
your person and property while attending Euro 2012.
• Be aware of your surroundings at all times and
keep a low profile.
• Never leave your belongings unattended.
• Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or wearing
expensive jewellery or valuables, as this may make
you an attractive target for criminals.
• Avoid walking in city streets after dark, especially
if alone. If you are walking, take only brightly lit,
busy streets.
• Violent xenophobic attacks are a concern. Visitors
who are visible members of ethnic or religious
minorities are advised to exercise heightened
caution and vigilance.
• Avoid disputes, demonstrations, political rallies and
commotions on the street. Do not stay to watch or
photograph them.
• Trust your instincts. If someone or something
makes you uneasy, avoid the person or leave
the area.
• Credit cards should only be used in reputable
establishments and it should be confirmed that the
correct amount has been charged.
• It is advisable to take adequate travel and medical
insurance, especially if the need arises to be
evacuated by air ambulance.
• Clients travelling to Euro 2012 can sign up to
receive red24’s SMS and email security and travel
alerts. Alerts are sent to inform clients of upcoming
events, breaking news, security and travel
incidents. Contact red24 for further information.
13

14 Euro 2012 safety and security report
Getting around
Air
Air travel is the safest and quickest way to travel
around both Poland and Ukraine. The domestic aviation
networks in both countries are extensive and there
are flights to most secondary cities. However, although
Poland’s air safety record is improving, concerns continue
to persist regarding the safety and reliability of air
transportation in Ukraine. There have been a series of
incidents in recent years, some of which have resulted
in fatalities. The US Federal Aviation Administration
(FAA) currently rates Ukraine as ‘Category 2’ for
aviation safety, which means it does not meet International
Civil Aviation Organization standards for aircraft
operations and maintenance. The European Commission
also reported in April 2008 that Ukraine needed
to strengthen its aviation safety oversight. Although
no Ukrainian carriers are currently on the EU Airline
Blacklist, barring them from EU airspace, in July 2007
Ukraine’s State Aviation Administration suspended
the operation of three local airlines—Baltic Airline,
Aeromost Kharkiv Airlines and Ukrainian Mediterranean
Airlines (UM Air) due to of concerns that they did
not meet international and national safety standards.
Separately, UM Air, Ukraine Cargo Airways and Valare
Aviation Enterprise (or Albatross Avia Ltd) have also
been previously refused permission to operate services
to the EU because they do not meet international
safety standards. As a consequence, red24 advises
against flying with the aforementioned airlines.
Rail
In Poland, Polish State Railways provide a safe, efficient,
comfortable and reliable service. First-class
seats are recommended. Express trains are also
recommended, as other services can be slow; tickets
should be reserved in advance. In Ukraine, the State
Railways Administration oversees a less modern and
efficient railway network, though express services can
be convenient. Visitors should be aware that facilities
on both the Polish and Ukrainian railway network can
be poor; clients are advised to bring their own refreshments
for longer journeys. Visitors should also not
travel alone by train, particularly at night. Petty criminality
is a problem both at stations and on some trains.
Road
Although highways and main roads in urban areas
are well developed and relatively well maintained in
both Poland and Ukraine, roads outside the cities
and off main highways are generally in poor condition.
Many roads are poorly signposted and signs are
only in Polish or Ukrainian. Street lighting is frequently
inadequate.
Driving standards in both countries are also poor; the
number of accidents in Ukraine and Poland is above
the European average. Locals drive aggressively and
routinely ignore traffic rules. Furthermore, despite low
tolerances and harsh penalties for driving under the
influence of alcohol, there are still a high number of
alcohol-related deaths on the road.
In Poland, the speed limit is 50kph in developed areas;
120kph for dual carriageways; and 140kph for motorways.
In Ukraine, the speed limit is 60kph in denser
areas; 90kph outside built-up areas; and 130kph on
motorways. Traffic drives on the right. Drivers should
carry their passport, an international driving permit
and original vehicle registration and insurance papers
at all times.
Taxi
Taxis are widely available in urban areas in both Poland
and Ukraine. red24 advises visitors to use radio
taxis or a taxi service recommended by their hotel.
Taxis hailed off the street are generally safe but often
do not have meters and can be expensive. There have
also been regular incidents of foreign nationals being
over-charged.

Further information
Health concerns
In general, medical facilities in Poland are of an acceptable
standard. Private medical facilities are good
and are also relatively inexpensive, but please note
that immediate cash payment is usually required. Polish
medical staff are well trained, but English is not
always spoken; patients without a grasp of Polish or
German may face communication difficulties. Common
medications are widely available at pharmacies.
Please find below a list of hospitals in Poland:
Warsaw
Woloska Hospital (Centralny Szpital Kliniczny MSWiA)
Ul. Woloska 137 Warsaw
Tel: +48 (0) 22 5081 510
Banacha Hospital (Centralny Szpital Kliniczny Akademii
Medycznej
Ul. Stefana Banacha 1A Warsaw
Tel: +48 (0) 22 5991 155
Institute of Cardiology-Hospital (Instytut Kardiologii)
(provides care for cardiac problems only)
Ul. Alpejska 42, Warszawa-Anin
Tel: +48 (0) 22 3434 100
Poison Control—Warsaw Acute Poison Control Center
(Stoleczny Osrodek Ostrych Zatruc) Praski Hospital
Al. Solidarnosci 67 Warsaw
Tel: +48 (0) 22 6196 654
Gdansk
St. Wojciecn Hospital
Al. John Paul 50
80-462 Gdansk-Zaspa
Tel: +48 (0) 58 7684 000
Poznan
Hospital of the Ministry of Interior (Szpital MSWiA)
ul. Dojazd 34
60-631 Poznan
Tel: +48 (0) 61 8464 641/650/500
Medical University of Poznan Hospital no. 2 (Szpital
Kliniczny Uniwersytetu Medycznego nr. 2)
Przybyszewskiego 49
60-355 Poznan
Tel: +48 (0) 61 8691 100
Wroclaw
Wroclaw Medical University
Wybrzeze L. Pasteural
50-367 Wroclaw
Tel: +48 (0) 71 7841 001
15
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) has replaced
the E111 and E128 health care forms. The EHIC
entitles cardholders to free emergency medical assistance
in European countries which subscribe to the
EHIC agreement. It should be noted that the EHIC will
only entitle eligible travellers to emergency treatment
in state-run medical facilities in Poland on the same
terms as Polish nationals. Hence, fully comprehensive
medical insurance is still recommended; for further
information please contact your insurance provider.
There are few health concerns for visitors to Poland.
Travellers should drink only bottled water, as tap water
can be of poor quality, especially in cities. Tick-borne
encephalitis (TBE) is common in Poland, especially in
forested areas during the summer months. Most cases
occur in the north east around the city of Białystok,
and also in the south west, in districts adjacent to
the Czech Republic. Brucellosis, a highly contagious
zoonotic infection, occurs occasionally, and is usually
acquired by consuming unpasteurised dairy products
from infected cattle, sheep and goats.
In Ukraine, a state-run medical service provides free
medical treatment for all citizens and foreign visitors.
However, facilities are generally poor. Private clinics
and hospitals offer a better standard of care, but these
does not always meet Western standards. It is advisable
to take a supply of medicines that are likely to
be required. However, visitors should ensure that any
medicines may be legally imported. Comprehensive
medical insurance should also be obtained before
travel.
Please find below a list of hospitals in Ukraine:
Kiev
Boris Hospital 55A Velyka Vasylkivska Street Kiev
Tel: +380 (0) 44 5361 980
E-mail: Med_Boris@ukr.net
Medicom 8 Kondratyka Street Kiev
Tel: +380 (0) 44 2340 303

16 Euro 2012 safety and security report
Donetsk
Donetsk Regional Trauma Hospital
106 Artyom Street
Donetsk 340048
Tel: +380 (0) 62 2551 141
Lviv
Sheptytsky Hospital
4 Ozarkevycha Street
Lviv
Tel: +380 (0) 32 2726 869
Kharkiv
Oblast Clinic Hospital
Prospect Pravdy 13
Kharkiv 61022
Tel: +380 (0) 57 7050 187
Influenza A (H1N1)/swine flu was reported in the
Ukraine in June 2009, and has since left scores of
people dead and thousands more infected across the
country. Authorities responded to the rapid spread of
the disease by placing partial restrictions on domestic
travel and introducing quarantine measures in
Ukraine’s nine western oblasts.
In December 2005, the H5N1 strain of bird flu was
reported in Crimea. Further outbreaks followed in 2006
in marshlands near the Sea of Azov. In January 2008,
another outbreak of the virus was detected at a poultry
farm in the Krasnogvardiyskyi Rayon in Crimea. Travellers
are advised to check with health officials prior to
travel to the affected areas. It is advisable to avoid
contact with all forms of poultry, including wild birds,
while in Ukraine.
There is a risk of tick-borne encephalitis in some areas
of the country below 1,400 metres, particularly the
mountain forest zone of Crimea. Crimean haemorrhagic
fever has also been reported in the country in
the past. Diphtheria is endemic to Ukraine, except the
Poltava region, while rabies, hepatitis A, hepatitis B,
tetanus, tuberculosis and typhoid may also be a risk.
In addition, the country has one of the highest rates of
HIV/AIDS infection in Europe.
The risk of radioactive contamination from the 1986
accident at Chernobyl is low outside the exclusion
zone immediately around the Chernobyl facility. Milk,
wild berries, mushrooms, and wild fowl and game from
the Chernobyl region should be avoided, as these
have been found to retain higher than average levels
of radiation. Do not drink tap water; only bottled water
or boiled water should be drunk, and ice should be
avoided. Visitors are also advised against consuming
food or beverages obtained from street vendors.
Money
In Poland, the official currency is the zloty. Foreign
currency can be exchanged easily at banks, bureaux
de change (locally called Kantor) and hotel reception
desks in towns and cities countrywide. Traveller’s
cheques are accepted at most Polish banks and larger
shops. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs
(bankomats) are plentiful. There have been some reports
of ATMs not accepting Maestro and VisaElectron
cards issued by foreign banks; however, Polish banks
are reportedly working to remedy this problem.
In Ukraine, the official currency is the hryvnia (UAH).
US dollars and euros are readily exchangeable in
major cities, and Britsh pounds to a lesser extent.
Travellers should only use official bureaux de change.
ATMs are available and credit cards are widely used,
but not universally accepted, in major cities. Outside
cities, travellers should carry sufficient funds in local
currency. Credit card and ATM fraud, as well as money
scams, are widespread. Hence, although credit card
and ATM use is increasingly common, it is strongly
recommended that visitors to Ukraine refrain from
using credit or debit cards except at major, reputable
establishments.

Important contact details
Emergency numbers
Poland:
Police: 997
Fire services: 998
Ambulance: 999
Ukraine:
Police: 02
Fire service: 01
Ambulance: 03
* The number 112 can be used to call emergency
services throughout the EU and supplements local
emergency numbers.
Diplomatic representation
Poland
Danish Embassy in Poland
ul. Marszalkowska 142
00-061 Warszawa
Tel: +48 (22) 565 29 00
Fax: wawamb@um.dk
Email: + 48 22 565 29 70
Finnish Embassy in Poland
ul. Fr. Chopina 4/8
00-559 Warszawa
Tel: +48 22 598 9500
Fax: +48 22 621 3442
Email: sanomat.var@formin.fi
Norwegian Embassy in Poland
ul. Chopina 2A
00-559 Warszawa
Tel: +48 22 696 40 30
Fax: +48 22 628 93 83
Email: emb.warsaw@mfa.no
Swedish Embassy in Poland
ul. Bagatela 3
00-585 Warszawa
Tel: +48 22 640 89 00
Fax: +48 22 640 89 83
Email: ambassaden.warszawa@foreign.ministry.se
Ukraine
Danish Embassy in the Ukraine
56, vul. B. Khmelnitskoho
4. etage,
01901 Kiev
Tel: +380 44 200 1260
Fax: +380 44 200 1281
Email: ievamb@um.dk
Finnish Embassy in Ukraine
Vul. Striletska 14
01901 Kiev
Tel: +380 44 278 7049
Fax: +380 44 278 3433
Email: sanomat.kio@formin.fi
Norwegian Embassy in the Ukraine
Vul. Striletska 15
01901 Kiev
Tel: +380 44 281 22 00
Fax: +380 44 281 22 99
Email: emb.kiev@mfa.no
Swedish Embassy in the Ukraine
Ivana Franka Street 34/33
3rd floor
01901 Kiev
Tel: +380 44 494 42 70
Fax: +380 44 494 42 71
Email: ambassaden.kiev@foreign.ministry.se
Should you require any further information or
assistance, please do not hesitate to contact red24
on +44 (0) 208 707 0000.
17

18 Euro 2012 safety and security report
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20 Euro 2012 safety and security report
DenMARK
SOS International a/s
Nitivej 6
2000 Frederiksberg
Denmark
Tel +45 7010 50 55
SWeDen
SOS International AB
Kottbygatan 7, 3 tr
164 28 Kista
Sweden
Tel +46 8 625 44 00
FinLAnD
SOS International Oy
Elimäenkatu 20A
00510 Helsinki
Finland
Tel +358 (0)9 25 27 11 00
nORWAy
SOS International AS
Sandakerveien 100C, 2. etg.
0484 Oslo
Norway
Tel +47 22 96 50 50
ChinA
SOS International China
Rm818, Yunsun Tower,
2025 Zhongshan Rd.(W),
Shanghai 200235, China
Tel: + 86 21 6037 0500