How Eurovision Became a Political Lightning Rod in 2024

This year's Eurovision winner is perhaps the least viral outcome from the festival.

There is reported to have been a vast amount of tension between contestants and country delegations throughout this year's Eurovision. The Hollywood Reporter says that rumors have circulated of entrants missing rehearsals throughout the preparation process, along with reports of backstage misconduct and a disqualification.

Amid the current era of political unrest, specifically between Israel and Palestine, flags were allegedly pulled down backstage. While the festival is meant to celebrate countries throughout Europe, reports and confirmed events all signal that this year's event was less joyful.

Dutch participant Joost Klein was disqualified on the day of the Grand Final after he was accused of intimidating a female member of the production crew. Swedish police are currently investigating the matter.

The European Broadcasting Union stated that they "regret" that some entrants did not "respect the spirit of the rules" this year, even revealing that the governing bodies and delegations will be reviewing what went wrong this year. With an event that is meant to bring a variety of countries together, political matters seemed to drive them further apart this year.

A first glimpse at the tension that carried through the event started when 20-year-old Israeli entrant Eden Golan was booed during her performance, with other contestants publicly vocalizing their disapproval of her participation. The performance was boycotted by those who condemn Israel's war in Gaza. Calling for a ceasefire, many chose to also boycott the entire festival due to Israel's inclusion.

Golan was placed under police protection throughout the week after receiving death threats. Thousands of people protested on the streets of Malmö during the performance, calling for Eurovision to distance themselves from the controversial country.

In addition, Ireland's contestant, Bambie Thug, accused an Israeli broadcaster of "inciting violence" against them after they condemned the partnership with Israel. BBC reports that a commentator on the broadcasting network told viewers to "prepare your curses" after the Irish singer had "spoken negatively about Israel."

While some argue that the "curses" comment was about the performer's song about placing a hex on an ex, they argue that it crossed a line, stating that the broadcaster should not be able to participate next year.

"The broadcaster [Kan] has disobeyed the rules and I hope next year they won't be able to compete because of that," they stated to reporters after the contest.

Initial blowback started before this year's event even took place, following the announcement of each contestant. Several contestants were called on to step out of the event due to Israel's inclusion. Notably, Olly Alexander of the U.K. spoke out about the contention surrounding Eurovision, responding to calls that he should not participate.

"I wholeheartedly support action being taken to demand an immediate and permanent ceasefire in Gaza, the return of all hostages and the safety and security of all civilians in Palestine and Israel," he wrote on Instagram prior to the event. "I know some people will choose to boycott this year's Eurovision and I understand and respect their decision."

Although Israel's entrant faced a large amount of backlash, they still placed second in the public vote when supporters of the country rallied behind them. Israel also placed fifth overall in the competition.

Tags

Eurovision, Israel