Why Is Eurovision Winner Nemo Returning Their Trophy in Protest?

The winner of last year's Eurovision Song Contest, Nemo, has announced they will return their trophy in protest against Israel's participation in the event, citing a conflict between Israel's involvement and Eurovision’s proclaimed values of unity, inclusion, and dignity. This decision comes amid growing tensions and boycotts surrounding Israel's ongoing participation in the competition, particularly in light of the recent conflict in Gaza.

Last updated: 12 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Nemo, a 26-year-old Swiss singer and the first non-binary performer to win the Eurovision trophy, has expressed their dissatisfaction with the European Broadcasting Union's (EBU) decision to allow Israel to compete next year. In an Instagram statement, Nemo articulated their belief that Israel's participation contradicts the core ideals of the contest, particularly during a time of significant humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This protest has sparked a broader discussion about the role of politics in international cultural events.

Key takeaways

• Nemo is returning their Eurovision trophy to protest Israel's continued participation.
• Five countries have announced their boycott of next year's contest due to Israel's involvement.
• Nemo's actions highlight a growing tension regarding Israel's presence in the competition amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Timeline: how we got here

The situation surrounding Israel's participation in Eurovision has evolved significantly over the past year:

• 7 October 2023: A Hamas-led attack on southern Israel results in significant casualties, marking the beginning of a renewed conflict.
• September 2023: The UN's Independent International Commission of Inquiry releases a report characterising the situation in Gaza as genocide.
• 2024 Eurovision Contest: Scheduled to be held in Vienna, amidst rising tensions and boycotts.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Nemo’s announcement to return their trophy is the latest development in a series of protests against Israel's participation in Eurovision. Their statement reflects a broader discontent among artists and countries regarding the contest's alignment with political issues.

What was already established

It has been previously reported that several countries, including Iceland, Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands, plan to boycott the contest next year due to Israel's involvement. Additionally, this year's competition faced controversy over alleged voting manipulation linked to the Israeli government.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The ongoing debate over Eurovision could influence public sentiment and consumer behaviour in the UK. The contest has historically been a source of national pride and cultural expression, but political controversies may affect audience engagement and viewership for the upcoming event.

Businesses and jobs

The potential boycott by multiple countries could impact businesses connected to the event, including tourism, hospitality, and local suppliers in Vienna. The economic implications of reduced participation could be significant, especially for those relying on the influx of visitors during the contest.

Policy and regulation

As protests grow, there may be increased scrutiny on the EBU and its policies regarding participation criteria. Upcoming consultations and discussions on how to handle political tensions within Eurovision could lead to changes in its governance and operational protocols.

Numbers that matter

• Over 70,370 individuals reportedly killed in Gaza since the outbreak of conflict on 7 October 2023.
• Five countries (Iceland, Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands) have announced boycotts of Eurovision 2024.
• Nemo's song "The Code" marked a historic win as they became the first non-binary artist to win Eurovision.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Eurovision Song Contest: An annual international song competition created in 1956, where countries participate by submitting original songs.
• EBU: European Broadcasting Union, the alliance of public service media organisations that oversees Eurovision.
• Boycott: A withdrawal from commercial or social relations as a protest against policies or actions.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, expect continued discussions around the political implications of Eurovision, particularly from participating countries and artists. Public reaction to Nemo's protest may influence other artists to take similar actions.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As the 2024 Eurovision contest approaches, the EBU may face pressure to address the controversies surrounding Israel's participation. This could involve revising participation criteria or enhancing support mechanisms for artists affected by political tensions.

Signals to watch

• Official statements from the EBU regarding participation rules and policies.
• Responses from other artists and countries concerning potential boycotts or protests.
• Public sentiment and media coverage related to the contest as it approaches.

Practical guidance

Do

• Stay informed about updates from Eurovision and participating countries.
• Support artists and initiatives advocating for humanitarian causes.
• Engage in discussions about the intersection of politics and cultural events.

Don’t

• Ignore the political context surrounding cultural events like Eurovision.
• Assume that all participants agree on political issues related to the contest.
• Dismiss the importance of artists’ voices in social and political matters.

Checklist

• Be aware of the countries planning to boycott Eurovision.
• Monitor any changes in Eurovision's participation policies.
• Consider the implications of participating in or supporting the contest.
• Reflect on how political issues influence cultural events you engage with.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

The situation regarding Eurovision and Israel's participation remains fluid and politically charged. While Nemo's actions have sparked significant reactions, the long-term implications of boycotts and protests are uncertain. The EBU's response and any potential changes to its policies could significantly impact the future of the contest and its reputation.

Bottom line

Nemo's return of the Eurovision trophy underscores the growing tension between artistic expression and political realities. As the contest approaches its 70th anniversary, the ongoing debates over participation and representation will likely shape its future in ways that resonate deeply with both performers and audiences alike.

FAQs

Why did Nemo return their Eurovision trophy?

Nemo returned their Eurovision trophy to protest Israel's continued participation, citing a conflict with the contest's values of unity and dignity.

What countries are boycotting Eurovision 2024?

Countries such as Iceland, Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands have announced their boycott of Eurovision 2024 due to Israel's involvement.

What is the significance of Nemo's win?

Nemo's win was historic as they became the first non-binary performer to win the Eurovision trophy, highlighting diversity in the competition.