“An integral part of our security plan!”
It is a tradition that will continue for the 22nd time in 2026: The Munich police will once again receive active support from colleagues from other European countries. In particular, the Italian police forces—the “Polizia di Stato” and the Carabinieri—play a central role in this effort and exemplify cooperation with other European countries.
Long-standing and proven international cooperation
On Sunday, September 27, Deputy Police Chief Christian Huber, Police Director Christian Schäfer, head of the Oktoberfest police unit, and Oktoberfest Director Dr. Christian Scharpf welcomed the uniformed police officers from Italy. The official welcome ceremony recognized the long-standing and proven international cooperation at the Oktoberfest.
Together with their Bavarian colleagues, Italian police officers and law enforcement personnel from other European countries are once again ensuring safety at the Wiesn this year. With their knowledge of languages and cultures, they facilitate communication with the numerous international guests, help defuse conflicts early on, and can provide rapid assistance when needed. This close cooperation is highly valued by both visitors and the participating law enforcement personnel.
The police also receive support from emergency responders from other European countries. During the so-called “Italian Weekend” and on the final festival weekend, three firefighters from Bolzano are on duty at the Integrated Control Center. There, they provide support, particularly in facilitating communication during emergency calls. Austrian emergency responders also make an important contribution: They help in the communication patients on site, thereby facilitating rapid initial care and ensuring the most accurate documentation possible.
Support in the Field
As an international folk festival, the Oktoberfest brings people from all over the world together every year—and thus presents special challenges for security and emergency response teams. Cross-border cooperation among police, fire departments, and emergency medical services from Italy, Austria, France, and other European countries helps them tackle these challenges together. The foreign emergency responders not only provide valuable support during operations but also serve as a visible symbol of European cooperation. For international guests, they also serve as familiar points of contact who can communicate with them in their own language.
“International support is an integral part of our security plan for Oktoberfest. It not only strengthens our operational capabilities but also makes the Wiesn feel just a little bit more like home for our guests,” emphasized Deputy Police Chief Christian Huber.
