The Committee on Safety and Security at Sports Events, of the Saint-Denis Convention, adopted, on 25 November 2025, a Recommendation on the possession and use of pyrotechnics at football matches and other sports events - (Rec (2025)2).
The Saint-Denis Convention (CETS No. 218) in its Article 5.5, calls Parties to incorporate clear policies and procedures on matters that might impact on crowd management and associated safety and security risks, in particular the use of pyrotechnics in football and other sports venues.
This Recommendation proposes several ways to improve the current situation, such as for example:
- States should work toward harmonising their legal frameworks governing the possession, use and sale of pyrotechnic devices;
- National and European law enforcement agencies, sports authorities and pyrotechnic manufacturers should strengthen cooperation to exchange information, develop best practices and coordinate efforts in preventing and countering the use of pyrotechnics at sports events;
- The use of innovative technologies should be further explored to deter and detect the possession and use of pyrotechnics in and around sports venues, subject to strict compliance with legal and human rights safeguards;
- Targeted education campaigns should be designed to raise awareness of the dangers of pyrotechnics and a structured dialogue should be established between police forces, clubs and supporters' associations to promote a safe fan culture and reduce pyrotechnics misuse; and
- Stewards, police and other stadium personnel should receive enhanced training in pyrotechnic-related risks.
Finally, the Recommendation invites States to incorporate these recommendations into their national legislation, strategies, and operational planning.
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