Slovenia's national broadcaster has confirmed it will not air the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, following the country's withdrawal from the event over Israel's participation. RTV Slovenia director Ksenija Horvat stated the network will instead broadcast a film series titled 'Voices of Palestine,' featuring Palestinian documentaries and feature films.
Boycott Movement
Slovenia joins Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Spain in boycotting the competition, which is set to take place in Vienna, Austria, in May. The decision follows organisers allowing Israel to compete despite ongoing conflict in Gaza. Slovenia has been a vocal critic of Israel's conduct in the Israel-Hamas war.
Eurovision's Political Entanglements
The Eurovision Song Contest, which aims to keep pop music separate from politics, has repeatedly faced geopolitical controversies. Russia was expelled in 2022 after its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. A global movement of over 1,000 artists, including Kneecap and Paloma Faith, is demanding a total boycott of Eurovision.
Rule Changes and Previous Expulsions
In November, Eurovision organisers announced rule changes regarding promotion and voting after concerns from broadcasters about Israel's result in last year's competition. Countries have been expelled at organisers' discretion, as seen with Russia in 2022. Ukraine won that year, and the 2023 contest was hosted in the UK.
Boy George's Stance
Boy George, representing San Marino alongside Italian singer Senhit, confirmed he will perform despite the boycott. He stated, 'I have many Jewish friends... Are people asking me to turn my back on my Jewish friends? It's not going to happen.' He added, 'I am not necessarily affiliated with Israel. The job of music is to unite people.' Boy George is among signatories of an open letter supporting Israel's participation, alongside Dame Helen Mirren, Mila Kunis, Amy Schumer, and others.
