Artists Call for Eurovision Boycott Over Israel’s Participation

The call was made Tuesday through an open letter published under the banner of No Music for Genocide.

In the letter, signatories strongly criticized the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), accusing it of applying “double standards.” They argued that while Russia was banned from the competition in 2022 following its invasion of Ukraine, Israel continues to be allowed to compete despite prolonged destruction and alleged human rights violations in Gaza.

Among the prominent signatories are renowned artists such as Brian Eno, Massive Attack, Roger Waters, and Kneecap. Former Eurovision winners, including Emmelie de Forest and Charlie McGettigan, have also expressed solidarity with the boycott.

The artists দাবি that the EBU has failed to uphold its stated neutrality. They argue that until Israel’s public broadcaster Kan is excluded from the contest, performers, industry professionals, and fans should withdraw their support.

The letter further stresses that silence is no longer an option. It also praises organizations and participants from countries such as Spain, Ireland, Iceland, Slovenia, and Netherlands who have already shown support for the protest by withdrawing from national selection processes.

This year’s Eurovision Song Contest is scheduled to take place from May 12 to 16 in Austria. However, the boycott call from such a large group of artists has already placed the event at the center of a major controversy.