The EBU has released a statement that Russia will no longer take part at the 2022 Eurovision Song Contest, which is due to take place in Turin.
“The inclusion of a Russian entry in this year’s Contest would bring the competition into disrepute.”
In its statement, the Executive Board of the EBU, consulted the Reference Group, with their recommendations supported by its members and Television Committee.
The EBU has announced that no Russian act will participate in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.
The Executive Board of the EBU made the decision following a recommendation earlier today by the Eurovision Song Contest’s governing body, the Reference Group, based on the rules of the event and the values of the EBU. The Reference Group recommendation was also supported by the EBU’s Television Committee.
The decision reflects concern that, in light of the unprecedented crisis in Ukraine, the inclusion of a Russian entry in this year’s Contest would bring the competition into disrepute.
Before making this decision the EBU took time to consult widely among its membership.
The EBU is an apolitical member organization of broadcasters committed to upholding the values of public service.
We 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.
The statement comes following the invasion of Ukraine by Russian forces on 23rd February 2022. Russia was set to participate in the second half of the first semi-final of the competition on the 10th of May.
The International Response
Multiple broadcasters and Eurovision participants past and present have released statements over the last 24 hours regarding Russia’s potential participation in the contest.
Ukrainian broadcaster UA:PBC stated that the EBU should expel Russia because their member broadcasters Channel One and VDTRK are acting as “a mouthpiece for the Kremlin” and “a key tool of political propaganda” during the invasion.
EBU broadcasting members from The Netherlands, Norway, Lithuania, Denmark, Iceland and Sweden also urged the EBU to reconsider Russia’s participation at the contest, with Finnish broadcaster Yle and Estonian broadcaster ERR stating that they would withdraw from this year’s contest if Russia were allowed to compete.
Opposition to their presence at this year’s contest has also been raised by 2022 participants Citi Zēni, who stated that ‘”the sound of beauty” cannot become the “sound of war”‘.
If you wish to read more about the unfolding situation in Ukraine, r/Ukraine has a pinned post with links to information, resources, and places to donate if you wish to do so.
News Source: EBU
Image Source: EBU
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