Slovenia has officially requested the exclusion of Israel from the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, citing ongoing military actions in Gaza as the primary reason. This request, submitted to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), has sparked significant debate and potential repercussions for Slovenia’s participation in the contest.
Key Takeaways
- Slovenia’s public broadcaster, RTV SLO, submitted a formal request to the EBU for Israel’s disqualification.
- The request is rooted in concerns over Israel’s military actions in Gaza, which have resulted in significant civilian casualties.
- Slovenia may withdraw from Eurovision 2025 if the EBU does not comply with its request.
- Israeli officials have condemned the request, framing it as an attempt to delegitimize Israel in international forums.
Background of the Request
The request from Slovenia comes in the wake of escalating violence in Gaza, which has reportedly resulted in over 45,000 Palestinian deaths since October 7, 2023. Slovenian President Natasa Pirc Musar has publicly stated that both Israel and Russia have violated the UN Charter through their military actions, but emphasized that Israel’s actions have been on a much larger scale.
The Slovenian public broadcaster’s board of directors discussed the potential for a boycott of the contest or a blackout of Israel’s performance if the EBU does not respond favorably to their request. This decision reflects a growing sentiment among some European nations regarding Israel’s actions in the ongoing conflict.
Slovenia’s Position
Slovenia has increasingly adopted a stance perceived as critical of Israel, having recognized Palestine as a state earlier this year. This diplomatic move was met with strong objections from the Israeli government, which views it as a reward for terrorism. Slovenian officials, however, argue that their recognition of Palestine is a step towards peace and coexistence.
Israel’s Response
In response to Slovenia’s request, Israeli officials have characterized the move as part of a broader campaign to isolate Israel from international institutions. Alon Gellert, representing Israel in the Knesset, stated that such demands are often driven by anti-Semitic sentiments and that Israel must fight against these efforts to maintain its presence in international forums.
Gellert warned that if Israel were to be excluded from Eurovision, it could set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to further isolation in other international bodies, including sports and cultural institutions.
Implications for Eurovision 2025
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 is scheduled to take place in Basel, Switzerland, in May. The EBU has yet to respond to Slovenia’s request, and the situation remains fluid. If Slovenia follows through on its threat to withdraw, it could significantly impact the contest’s dynamics and the representation of countries involved.
The ongoing debate surrounding Israel’s participation in Eurovision is not new, as previous contests have seen calls for boycotts and protests against Israel’s actions in Gaza. Activists argue that the competition should remain apolitical, while others contend that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza necessitates a reevaluation of Israel’s involvement.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on the EBU’s response and Slovenia’s next steps regarding its participation in Eurovision 2025.
Sources
- Slovenia requests Israel’s exclusion from Eurovision 2025: Report, Anadolu Ajansı.
- Israel: The Response to Slovenia’s Request for Disqualification from Eurovision 2025 – Eurovision News | Music | Fun, Eurovision News | Music.
- Slovenia calls for Israel to be removed from Eurovision 2025, The New Arab.
- Slovenian broadcaster seeks to ban Israel from Eurovision 2025 due to Gaza War | All Israel News, All Israel News.
- Slovenia Demands Israel’s Removal From Eurovision 2025 – Israel News – Haaretz.com, Haaretz.
Turkish 
English