Spanish broadcaster RTVE has written to the Director General of the European Broadcasting Union about opening a debate in regards to Israel’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest
A letter to the Director General of the EBU
The news comes after the broadcaster considered a motion about the non-inclusion of Israel in this year’s contest. In a statement on its website, RTVE mentioned that it remains committed to the EBU, with the broadcaster acknowledging the concerns that has been raised to them by civil society groups, with RTVE saying that it is ‘would be appropriate for the EBU to recognize the existence of this debate and facilitate a space for reflection among EBU member broadcasters on the participation of Israeli public television station KAN’.
After the news came out, the EBU responded to KAN’s request with the following statement:
We welcome RTVE confirming their commitment to the Eurovision Song Contest and appreciate there are concerns and deeply held views around the current conflict in the Middle East.
All Members of the EBU are eligible to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest and we remain in constant contact with those participating this year, including RTVE, on all aspects of the Contest.
This is not the first instance since Eurovision 2024 took place that there have been calls for Israel’s exclusion from the competition or not take part due to Israel’s participation.
Late last year, RTV SLO’s Council directed the management of the broadcaster to initiate a request for Israel’s non-participation, and last month Finnish broadcaster Yle received a petition, with over 10,000 for the broadcaster to boycott Eurovision 2025 due to Israel’s inclusion in the competition.
All About Eurovision 2025 so far
Switzerland will be hosting the 69th edition of the competition following Nemo’s historic win at Eurovision 2024 in Malmö. A few weeks after their win, Reto Peritz, and Moritz Stadler, was announced as the Executive Producers, with the other roles revealed in July 2024.
Basel, Bern & Biel/Bienne, Geneva, and Zurich submitted bids to host next year’s competition, with Basel and Geneva being shortlisted as the final two cities. After the shortlist, it was revealed that Basel will host Eurovision 2025, at St. Jakobshalle with the shows taking place on May 13, 15 and 17.
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News Source: RTVE / EBU
Photo Credit: RTVE
Giwrgos Oiko