Port of Gothenburg – a role model in modern port security
Summary of the article
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Since 2007, the Port of Gothenburg has undergone a major transformation in security, led by Head of Security Thomas Fransson.
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The port has implemented perimeter fencing, surveillance systems, K9 units, and performs 20,000 background checks annually.
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Close collaboration with authorities such as police, customs, and coast guard has been key to its success.
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The security threat has broadened following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine — drones, fake delegations and suspicious activity are now regularly reported.
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More than 40 ISPS and total defense exercises are conducted each year, including joint drills with NATO and the Swedish Armed Forces.
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Insider threats are a growing challenge, addressed by stricter vulnerability assessments and access controls.
From project to culture
The journey began with a three-year project that soon evolved into a long-term commitment. A new security culture emerged, combining physical measures, such as perimeter protection, surveillance systems and canine units, with routines, training, technology and cooperation.
“It’s the overall structure that makes the difference. You can’t rely on cameras or fences alone. You need a system, collaboration and long-term thinking,” Fransson says.
Today, the Port of Gothenburg manages around 4,500 access events every day and conducts approximately 20,000 background checks annually. Security is not just about technology, it relies equally on awareness and daily routines among staff. The security mindset is embedded across the organisation.
Collaboration with authorities is key
A major contributor to the port’s success is its close cooperation with Swedish authorities. Since the Protective Security Act was reinforced in 2017, the police, customs, coast guard and others have taken on clearer roles. This has enabled faster interventions and, in many cases, successful prosecutions. One notable case involved a stowaway who attempted to access the port on nine separate occasions, each attempt resulted in legal consequences.
“Today, the cooperation between authorities and the port operates efficiently,” Fransson says. “Police respond immediately, joint structures are in place, and the Protective Security Act carries real legal weight.”
The Port of Gothenburg has also established a joint Maritime Security Committee. This forum enables regular information exchange between the police, security service, customs and coast guard, a collaboration that has proven invaluable to preventative efforts.
A changing threat landscape
Europe’s shifting security climate, particularly after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has widened the range of threats. Suspicious photography, false delegations, ambiguous communication attempts and unauthorised drone activity have all become more frequent.
“We report every incident to the police and the Swedish Security Service. Even if we can’t see the whole picture ourselves, we are part of the intelligence chain,” Fransson says.
To address these threats, the Port of Gothenburg has intensified its training programme. Today, it carries out more than 40 ISPS exercises each year, including full-scale defense drills together with NATO forces, the Swedish Armed Forces and civilian agencies.
Insider threats – a growing challenge
One of the most pressing issues today is the risk posed by insider threats, individuals with authorised access to restricted areas who may be targeted by criminal networks. As a result, the port has strengthened its vetting procedures and access controls.
“We can now deny access based on risk or vulnerability assessments, in full compliance with the Protective Security Act. This is a powerful tool in our preventative work,” Fransson says.
A security culture that lasts
Security is now a visible and integrated part of daily operations at the port. Staff receive regular training and incident reporting is steadily increasing. Fransson attributes this not only to the external security climate, but also to a consistent and open approach over time.
A message to other ports
Not all ports have access to the same resources as Gothenburg. Still, Fransson believes that even smaller ports can make significant progress:
“Don’t wait for the authorities to approach you. Take the initiative, build your networks, and start somewhere. Security is not just about technology, it’s about commitment, structure and collaboration.”