Eurovision 2024 Grand Finale Sparks Controversy

Just hours after Eurovision 2024 disqualified one of its top contestants, the song contest announced a surprising new winner: Swiss singer Nemo. Nemo won with their song “The Code,” which tells the story of their journey embracing their nonbinary identity. The song’s powerful narrative resonated with audiences, earning Nemo the coveted title of Eurovision champion.

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Before Nemo and the other contestants from 24 countries took the stage, Eurovision 2024 was already making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Held in Malmö, Sweden, this year, the contest faced protests from day one. Many outraged by the decision to include a participant from Israel.

People were deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, a militant group based in Gaza. The war’s toll on civilians, especially in Gaza, sparked increasing dismay worldwide.

The controversy cast a shadow over the event, raising questions about the intersection of music, politics, and human rights on the Eurovision stage.

As Golan and other singers took the stage, thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered outside. They were demonstrating against both the war and Golan’s participation in Eurovision. One of the protesters was climate activist Greta Thunberg, as reported by The Wrap.

Thunberg had posted on Twitter, “Malmö says NO to genocide! People from all over Sweden are gathering in Malmö this week, where Eurovision is taking place, to protest against Israel’s participation in the competition,” the day before the finale. She had also seen at protests against the contest earlier in the week.

During the final dress rehearsal on Saturday afternoon, French contestant Slimane made a surprising move, as reported by the BBC. Breaking Eurovision’s “no politics” rule, Slimane paused in the middle of his song to address the audience. He said, “Everybody, I just need to say something.

Every artist here wants to sing about love and peace. We need to united by music, yes, but with love for peace.” Slimane’s impromptu statement emphasized the importance of unity and peace through music, despite the competition’s strict guidelines against political commentary.

After his heartfelt message during the dress rehearsal, Slimane concluded by saying, “United by music, yes, but with love for peace. Thank you so much. Thank you, Europe.”

Despite breaking the “no politics” rule, Slimane’s performance earned him fourth place in the contest for his song “Mon Amour.” His words resonated with many, emphasizing the universal desire for harmony and understanding, even in the midst of a music competition.

Slimane’s words weren’t the only ones to stir controversy at Eurovision 2024. Irish contestant Bambie Thug, who placed sixth in the competition, also made headlines. According to the Irish Independent, the non-binary singer accused Israeli broadcaster KAN of inciting violence against them multiple times.

Thug’s allegations added to the already tense atmosphere surrounding the inclusion of Israel in the contest, highlighting concerns about safety and discrimination within the competition.

Thug expressed their frustration, stating. “That broadcaster has disobeyed the rules, and I hope next year they won’t allowed to compete because of that.” They emphasized their pride in the top 10 contestants who had been advocating for change behind the scenes.

Thug added, “I’m so proud of all of us in the top 10 that have been fighting for this stuff behind the scenes. Because it has been so hard, it has been so horrible for us, and I’m so proud of us.” Thug’s comments shed light on the challenges faced by contestants. The ongoing efforts to address issues within the Eurovision competition.

Another contestant, Joost Klein from the Netherlands, found himself disqualified from the finale. Due to an alleged incident involving a Eurovision employee. In response to the situation, event organizers released a statement affirming their zero tolerance policy towards inappropriate behavior.

They emphasized their commitment to ensuring a safe and secure working environment for all staff involved in the contest. The incident added to the series of controversies surrounding Eurovision 2024, raising concerns about professionalism and accountability within the event.

The various issues that surfaced throughout the days-long competition created significant tension this year. Following their historic win as Eurovision’s first-ever nonbinary champion, Nemo addressed the controversies during a press conference.

Alluding to the challenges faced, Nemo expressed hope. That the contest could fulfill its promise of standing for peace and dignity for every individual. The Associated Press (AP) reported on Nemo’s statement, highlighting the significance of their victory. And the broader aspirations for the Eurovision platform.

Nemo‘s victory marks the first time a Swiss contestant has won since 1988 when Canadian singer Celine Dion competed as Switzerland’s representative. During the trophy acceptance, Nemo spoke on behalf of individuals who bravely embrace their true selves and those who seek to be acknowledged and understood.

“We need more compassion,” Nemo emphasized, urging for greater empathy in society. The singer’s heartfelt plea resonated with many, underscoring the importance of acceptance and understanding in today’s world.