Eurovision Bans
Russia
By: Marcella Oliviero '22
After the tragedies that have occurred in Ukraine due to Russian actions, people arund the globe began to protest. Recently, Europe's annual song contest, Eurovision, even banned Russia from competing in this year's evnents. According to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Russia's inclusion could have brought disfavor to the competition "in light of the unprecedented crisis in Ukraine" and Russia's February 24, 2022, attack on Ukraine.
Furthermore, F1's Russian Grand Prix, which was supposed to occur in Sochi in September, was canceled as well. Ukrainian Broadcasters urged the EBU to suspend Russia's involvement in Eurovision and no longer allow Russia to compete. Many other broadcasters in Iceland, Norway, Finland, and the Netherlands had also requested that Russia be banned from the contest. Finland representatives said if Russia were to compete, a Finnish competitor would not be sent to the May contest in Turin. The EBU said it is and will remain dedicated to "protecting the values of a cultural competition, which promotes international exchange and understanding, brings audiences together, celebrates diversity through music, and unites Europe on one stage."
Nadine Dorries, the United Kingdom Culture Secretary tweeted, "Eurovision stands for freedom, unity, and respect between countries – watched and enjoyed by tens of millions around the world. Glad to see Eurovision taking action and kicking Russia out." Russia still has not announced what its planned activities for the contest were. However, it last won in 2008 with Dima Bilan singing "Believe." In recent years, Russia has been one of the strongest Eurovision competitors, with over three top-five finishes in the past decade.
Ukraine picked its hip-hop trio Kalush Orchestra, whose song "Stefania" was written as a tribute to their mothers, to replace the country's original contestant, Alina Pash. Pash withdrew in mid-February after facing backlash over the time she traveled to Russia-controlled Crimea in 2015. Jamala, a Ukrainian singer, called Eurovision fans and requested that they not ignore Russia's actions towards Ukraine. "I don't know how this is possible, but they bombed peaceful people… Please support Ukraine. Stop Russian aggression."
This is a very stressful time for the world, and Ukraine needs everyone's support.
By: Marcella Oliviero