This report is written by Trisa Ghosh, Senior Intelligence Analyst, and Mitsu Sahay, Intelligence Analyst, and reviewed by Atharv Desai, Associate Director of Intelligence in the Europe Division.

• Authorities across major European cities have implemented extensive traffic restrictions, fireworks ban, and enhanced policing measures ahead of New Year’s Eve celebrations on December 31–January 1 to mitigate public safety risks associated with large-scale gatherings. 
• Despite these measures, the risk of violent disorder, including arson, vandalism, fireworks-related incidents, and clashes with police, remains elevated, based on recurring New Year–related unrest in recent years. This risk is assessed to be particularly pronounced in Amsterdam, Berlin, Brussels, Paris, London, Milan, and Rotterdam. 
• High footfall and crowd congestion will sustain an elevated risk of opportunistic crime, including pickpocketing, theft of high-value items, retail crime, and sexual harassment, particularly in nightlife districts, transport hubs, and major event locations. 
• Amid a heightened baseline jihadist threat during the holiday period, New Year’s Eve celebratory events remain vulnerable targets due to large crowds, predictable schedules, symbolic value, and high visibility, despite robust counterterrorism postures. 
• Overall, individuals residing in or traveling to major European cities between December 31 and January 1 are advised to maintain heightened vigilance due to the elevated risk of unrest, criminal activity, and potential violent attacks in the vicinity of New Year’s Eve celebrations. 

• On December 31 and January 1, New Year’s Eve celebrations are slated in multiple cities across Europe. Associated traffic restrictions and security measures will be in place. Details are as follows:

1. Those residing in or traveling across Europe are advised to maintain heightened vigilance in the vicinity of New Year’s Eve celebrations, public squares, nightlife districts, transport hubs, and other high-footfall locations due to the risks of unrest, heightened criminal activity, and risk of terror attacks. 
2. Avoid partaking in dense crowds near fireworks displays, countdown events, or confined public spaces where crowd surges, disorder, or fireworks-related incidents are more likely to occur. Identify multiple exit routes when attending public events. 
3. Plan travel with flexibility, accounting for widespread road closures, last-minute station shutdowns, and modified public transport schedules. Monitor official transport and police channels for real-time updates. 
4. Immediately report suspicious behavior or objects to local authorities or on-site security personnel. 
5. Remain vigilant to petty crime risks, including pickpocketing, bag snatching, retail theft, and watch theft, especially in crowded areas. Secure valuables discreetly and avoid displaying high-value items. 
6. Exercise caution in nightlife districts, where heavy alcohol consumption may increase the likelihood of altercations, sexual harassment, and antisocial behavior. Travel in groups where possible and pre-arrange transport. 
7. Avoid protest locations and spontaneous gatherings, particularly where rival ideological groups may converge. If caught near a demonstration, leave the area promptly and follow police instructions. 
8. If a security checkpoint is encountered, act respectfully and patiently, while cooperating fully with security personnel. Refrain from photographing security personnel or documenting events. 
9. If traveling with a local colleague, it is advisable to allow them to deal directly with security forces and only speak when addressed. 
10. Ensure that when traveling, you have sufficient means of identification and can evidence, if required, exactly where you are going. 
11. For any questions and risk assessments, please contact [email protected].