Europeans live in a state of expectation of new covid restrictions. DIP summarized the information that was relevant for December 24 and found out in which European countries the authorities have already tightened the requirements and whether they will affect the New Year and Christmas days.
Austria
From December 27, it will be possible to visit restaurants and cafes only until 22:00 – after this time, all catering points should be closed. In addition, the rule “2P” applies – entry is allowed only for those vaccinated or recovered from the coronavirus. The same goes for entering the country. “The authorities just last week decided not to introduce a lockdown for the New Year, although the population was morally ready for such a turn of events,” observers note.
Belgium
In Belgium, immediately after Catholic Christmas, quarantine measures will be tightened. The authorities announced the closure of virtually all entertainment venues effective December 26, due to the rapid spread of the omicron strain. You cannot visit theaters, cinemas, concert halls, casinos. And from December 29, no more than two visitors at a time will be allowed into shops.
Germany
Not encroached on Christmas – one of the traditional family holidays for the indigenous population – and in Germany. But no more than 10 people can gather – massive New Year and Christmas celebrations are prohibited. This rule applies to people who are vaccinated or have had coronavirus. The unvaccinated are allowed to meet with close relatives and a maximum of two people not from their own family. In addition, the authorities plan to close nightclubs and discos during the New Year period. But bars and restaurants should not be affected by these measures. The restrictions are expected to come into effect on December 28 for a period of 10 days.
Greece
All planned outdoor events have been canceled from December 23 to January 2. Also now it is obligatory to wear protective masks not only indoors, but also outdoors. This is the second time in a month that the authorities have tightened their requirements, and, most likely, they will not stop there. The government is expected to reduce the maximum number of visitors to public places, as well as the opening hours of shops, cafes and restaurants.
Spain
Spain has reintroduced the requirement to wear masks on the streets. And in Catalonia, they propose to introduce a curfew from 1:00 to 6:00. It will operate in cities with a population of over 10 thousand people – Barcelona is one of them. In addition, it is forbidden to gather in companies of more than 10 people. From what day the restrictions will start to operate, it has not yet been decided.
Netherlands
And in the Netherlands, without waiting for any holidays, a strict quarantine has been introduced since December 19. The authorities took such a measure because of the spread of the omicron strain. All residents and tourists must observe strict isolation. The number of guests that can be received is reduced from four to two, with the exception of Christmas Day on December 25th. Shops, restaurants, bars, cinemas, museums and theaters closed until January 14. The only exceptions are supermarkets and pharmacies.