Eurovision Song Contest organization does not plan to exclude Israel: 'It is a non-political event' | music

The responsible authorities reviewed the list of participants and confirmed that Israel met all requirements for participation. “The European Broadcasting Union joins other international organisations, including sports federations, federations and other international bodies, that have maintained their comprehensive stance towards Israeli participants in major competitions at this time,” the statement read.

The European Broadcasting Union therefore declares that the Eurovision Song Contest is an event between participating broadcasters and not between countries. “It is a competition for broadcasters – not governments – and Israel’s public broadcaster has been participating in the festival for fifty years. The European Broadcasting Union is committed to ensuring that the Eurovision Song Contest remains a non-political event that unites audiences around the world through music.

However, in recent weeks, there has been criticism in various countries and on social media due to the war in the Gaza Strip. There have been widespread calls for a ban on Israel this year. In Finland, a group of 1,300 musicians signed a petition against Israel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. The International Eurovision Fan Club in Iceland has appealed not to participate in the music event if Israel also participates.

Protests were very intense at Melodi Grand Prix 2024. Demonstrations were held outside the studio before the shows. The second semi-final was brutally disrupted by a protester during the live broadcast. During one of the interviews, she appeared on screen carrying the Palestinian flag and a T-shirt reading “Boycott Israel.” “There is a war going on and we can do more. Norway must do more,” she said. The same evening, other protests broke out at the entrance to the studio.

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The 68th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Sweden this year, after singer Loren won last year with the song “Tattoo”. The final of the festival is scheduled to take place on May 11 in Malmö. At the beginning of December, the EBU has already published the list of participants, in cooperation with KAN Israel. Mosti will take office for our country.

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