Eurovision fever hits host city Vienna
Summary
The 70th Eurovision Song Contest began in Vienna with many fans attending events before the final on May 16. Some countries and artists are calling for a boycott because Israel is participating, linked to conflicts in Gaza. Eurovision organizers are also monitoring voting rules to keep the contest fair.Key Facts
- Vienna is hosting the 70th Eurovision Song Contest with many events leading up to the final.
- 35 countries have delegations participating in the contest.
- Finland is a favorite this year with a live violin performance allowed as an exception.
- Spain, Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia are boycotting because of Israel’s involvement.
- The boycott is related to Israel’s military actions in Gaza following attacks by Hamas in 2023.
- Over 1,000 artists, including Peter Gabriel and Massive Attack, have also called for a boycott.
- Pro-Palestinian demonstrations took place in Vienna with police deployed for security.
- Eurovision warned Israel’s broadcaster to stop asking people to vote multiple times, which breaks contest rules.
- Some countries, including Germany, France, Italy, Britain, and Austria, have guaranteed spots in the final due to financial support or previous wins.
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