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Should we be watching Eurovision this year?
The 70th Eurovision in Vienna is proving to be the most fractured moment in the contest’s history. As the final approaches, a crucial question remains: is the slogan ‘United by Music’ still accurate?
The debate centers on the decision by the European Broadcasting Union to include Israel in the 2026 competition. This choice has led to an unprecedented boycott, with broadcasters from Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, Iceland, and Spain officially withdrawing. These organizations have cited the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, stating it unconscionable to broadcast the event.
Critics and human rights groups have questioned why Russia was suspended in 2022 while the same rules have not been applied here, describing it as a blatant double standard
This tension has placed pressure on LGBTQ+ artists who often see Eurovision as a sanctuary. We have seen 2024 winner Nemo return their trophy in protest, while other queer performers face the choice of whether to code messages of peace in their slot or withdraw. Even the voting system has been altered following concerns over coordinated influence operations.
So, should we even be watching?