Following the disqualification of Dutch contestant Joost Klein at this year’s Eurovision song contest, the Netherlands is considering its future participation in the event, according to the Dutch state broadcaster, Avrotros. Klein was set to represent the Netherlands with his song ‘Europapa’ and was considered one of the favourites to win before he was disqualified just hours before the final after he was accused of making verbal threats towards a female member of the production crew. The disqualification marked the first time an act had been disqualified after reaching the Grand Final in the competition’s 68-year history. A spokesperson for the police revealed that it was looking likely that Klein will face legal action and the investigation had since concluded.
After news of Klein’s disqualification, Avrotros was “shocked” by the decision and stated that while Klein made a “threatening move” towards a female camera operator, he had not touched her. Now, Avrotros, like other participating countries, has received a request from the EBU to cooperate in an investigation. The Dutch state broadcaster added its belief that a broader, more in-depth, and independent investigation is needed to address structural problems, highlighting the roles and mandates of delegated participating countries, the rules and procedures regarding complaints, and the increased pressure on artists and delegations.
In the future, Avrotros stated that their participation in the Eurovision Song Contest remains under consideration until they are confident that structural adjustments will be made to the artists and their musical message. This year’s event was dogged by controversy as it allowed Israel to compete amid ongoing conflict with Hamas in Gaza, causing several countries, including eventual winners Switzerland and the United Kingdom, to consider withdrawing from the event. A spokesperson for Switzerland denied reports that contestant Nemo was contemplating pulling out.
Magnus Børmark, a member of the Norwegian band Gåte, who also considered withdrawing from the competition, added that “Our common point was that we did not want to participate in Eurovision to be used and stigmatised in a war propaganda machine in Israel. We participated to create a space where we can unite in music – in a political situation where everyone chooses sides and hates each other.
Read the full article on NME here: Read More