Eurovision expresses disappointment over performer wearing pro-Palestinian symbol

On May 7th, the initial semi-final of the 2024 Eurovision competition occurred, featuring standout performances from artists like Bambie Thug for Ireland, Olly Alexander for the UK, and Marcus & Martinus for Sweden.

Eric Saade, a previous contestant from Sweden, participated in the show's opening act, performing his song "Popular," which earned him third place in 2011.

The musician was seen wearing a keffiyeh on his arm, a symbol commonly used to show support for Palestine.

In reponse, a representative of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said in a statement: “All performers are made aware of the rules of the contest, and we regret that Eric Saade chose to compromise the non-political nature of the event.”

Despite facing criticism for its decision not to exclude Israel and worldwide protests condemning the organizers' choice, the competition maintained its stance.

“Politics does influence the event from time to time,” said Paul Jordan, a contest enthusiast and researcher who was part of its communications team from 2015 to 2018, in an interview with CNN.

However, he noted, “the presence of Israel has become such a big issue (that) I think it’s going to overshadow the event.”

The news comes during Israel’s seizure and closure of the Rafah crossing in Gaza, which has raised concerns that already-scarce food and medical supplies will be further depleted and lead to a “catastrophic” humanitarian disaster.

As of now, more than 34,789 people, including 14,500 children, have been killed by Israel in Gaza. UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese and the UN’s former human rights official Craig Gerard Mokhiber are among international figures who have recognised Israel’s actions as either ethnic cleansing or a genocide.

International human rights organizations like Amnesty International have also declared Israel an apartheid state.