Dutch Eurovision contestant Joost Klein is the subject of an investigation by organisers following an incident ahead of the competition’s grand final. Klein was reportedly barred from performing his song ‘Europapa’ during the dress rehearsal in Sweden, and it is unclear whether he will be allowed to perform at all on the Saturday night. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which oversees Eurovision, said it was “investigating” Klein and he “will not be rehearsing until further notice”. Klein is tentatively scheduled to perform in the fifth slot during the event, ahead of Israel’s Eden Golan, whose song ‘Hurricane’ has been the focus of controversy.
Many commentators have criticised Israel’s involvement in this year’s competition, given the ongoing violence in Gaza. Golan has been publicly booed during rehearsals, and was again met with a mix of cheers and boos during the semi-finals. Her inclusion in the final has been viewed by some as cultural endorsement of Israel’s actions. A warning was recently issued by the EBU regarding the abuse and harassment directed at artists as a result of their participation in the event. While the organisation supports freedom of speech, it “firmly oppose[s] any form of online abuse, hate speech, or harassment directed at our artists or any individuals associated with the contest”.
The European Broadcasting Union reserves the right to remove pro-Palestinian symbols and flags at Eurovision. Earlier this year, Queers for Palestine wrote an open letter to British entrant Olly Alexander, urging him to boycott the event due to Israel’s involvement. The letter claimed that Israel’s inclusion amounted to “cultural cover and endorsement” of violence against Palestinians.
During the grand final, Klein is ranked among the top ten eurovision contenders. Croatia is currently seen as the favourite to win, with Israel’s Golan the second favourite
Read the full article on NME here: Read More