Ukraine’s former Eurovision winner, Jamala, has stated that her country “cannot afford” to boycott this year’s contest, citing the need to remind Europe of the ongoing Russian invasion. Despite calls for artists to withdraw from the competition due to the controversial decision to allow Israel to compete amid the war in Gaza, Jamala believes that it is essential for Ukraine to continue participating. As a result of the ongoing war, she also emphasized the need for artists to be “loud and creative” in their approach and continue drawing attention to Russia’s campaign in the country.
Jamala encouraged Ukraine’s 2024 entry, Alyona Alyona and Jerry Heil, to give multiple interviews about the war in Ukraine and to remind the world that it continues. Last year, Jamala herself was placed on Russia’s wanted list for “violating a criminal law.” The country claimed that she spread false information about the Russian military and ongoing fighting in Ukraine, after the adoption of a law that banned such activity in 2022.
In addition, Eurovision’s organizers have confirmed that ticket buyers at the show will only be allowed to display flags of countries officially participating in the competition and the Pride flag. The Palestinian flag and pro-Palestinian symbols will not be allowed during the contest. Despite that, pro-Palestinian demonstrations are still expected to take place in protest of Israel’s participation. There have been numerous calls to boycott the competition from various countries, including Sweden and Finland.
Olly Alexander, the UK’s entry this year, faced pressure to withdraw after signing a statement calling Israel an “apartheid state” and accusing it of genocide. However, he confirmed that he would not be boycotting Eurovision, and that he “firmly believe[s] in the unifying power of music.” Alexander acknowledged that there are “a lot of things [he] wish[ed] were different,” but still believed that Eurovision had the potential to bring people together through entertainment
Read the full article on NME here: Read More