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Eurovision Is Facing Boycott Calls Over Israel’s Inclusion
The European Broadcasting Union has released a statement condemning the “abuse or harassment” of any contestant.
Musicians including Robyn, Fever Ray, First Aid Kit, the Knife’s Olof Dreijer, Refused, and Viagra Boys signed the letter, along with past Eurovision performers Eric Saade and Malena Ernman (mother of climate activist Greta Thunberg). EBU’s website also includes a FAQ page about Israeli participation this year, maintaining its stance that Eurovision is a nonpolitical event for which Israel and “Hurricane” meet the eligibility requirements. On March 29, nine Eurovision participants — Ireland’s Bambie Thug, Demark’s Saba, UK’s Olly Alexander, Norway’s Gate, Portugal’s Iolanda, San Marino’s band Megara, Switzerland’s Nemo, Lithuanian singer Silvester Belt and Finland’s Windows95Man — issued a joint statement expressing “solidarity with the oppressed” and calling for “an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and the safe return of all hostages.” The artists explained that they will not be pulling out of the competition, writing, “We feel that it is our duty to create and uphold this space, with a strong hope that it will inspire greater compassion and empathy.”
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