With just one week to go until Eurovision 2025 kicks off, Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS has announced it will appeal a decision regarding the flag policy of the upcoming Contest.
New flag policy “not a good signal”
In a statement released to the Dutch media, broadcaster AVROTROS confirmed the appeal. Earlier this week, the flag policy was announced for Eurovision 2025. Under the new rules, flags that do not abide by Swiss law will not be allowed into the arena. As well as this, only the flags of competing countries are allowed. As a result, this means the Pride flag – commonly seen at Eurovision – will not be seen.
However, AVROTROS is now appealing the decision made by the EBU. Speaking with LGBTQIA+ group COC, the groups unanimously agreed the flag was “not a political symbol”, and thus should be allowed into the arena. The statement read:
Especially at this time, when the human rights of the LGBTI+ community are under pressure, it is not a good signal to ban those flags at the Eurovision Song Contest.
We would like to see if we can get something moving. We hope the EBU is open to that.
The story of 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.
What do you make of AVROTROS’ challenge to the flag policy? Do you think things will change in time? As always, please let us know what you think by getting involved in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow ‘That Eurovision Site’ on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Threads, tumblr, and Bluesky for more information about Eurovision 2025!
News Source: RTL Boulevard
Photo Credit: Sarah Louise Bennett / EBU
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