AVROTROS and the NPO are advocating for a fundamental discussion with the European Broadcasting Union about “the basic principles” of the Eurovision Song Contest. They argue that the event is increasingly under pressure from social and geopolitical tensions.
In a joint statement, AVROTROS and the NPO emphasize that they value the apolitical and unifying character of the Song Contest. “But we see that the event is increasingly influenced by social and geopolitical tensions,” the broadcasters write.
According to them, Israel’s participation this year raises questions about the credibility of the festival as a politically neutral and unifying cultural event. AVROTROS and the NPO want to engage in discussions with other participating countries within the Song Contest organization EBU about the future and principles of the festival.
“The Song Contest must return to its core,” says AVROTROS. “A unifying cultural event that rises above political tensions. The current situation raises questions about the limits of participation, the role of governments and the credibility of the apolitical nature.”
Discussion About Israeli Participation
In recent years, there has been much debate about Israel’s participation. During the most recent edition, the performance of the Israeli singer Yuval Raphael was disrupted several times.
In addition, criticism arose about the voting system. The Belgian broadcaster VRT and the Spanish RTVE questioned the fact that Israel received twelve points from the public, while the professional juries awarded no points. Both broadcasters are calling for an investigation. According to the EBU, the televoting was conducted correctly.
The issue has also been discussed at a political level. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez called on the EBU on Monday to exclude Israel from participation, as was previously done with Russia. “We cannot apply double standards when it comes to culture,” he said.