The Eurovision Song Contest begins this week, with the world’s eyes set on Vienna.
But in a time of high global uncertainty, the iconic, joyful event is being marred by politics.
The ABC reports that national broadcasters in Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia and Iceland, who televise the contest, are boycotting the event.
They have claimed their actions in protest of Israel’s participation in the competition.
The Irish broadcaster RTÉ said taking part was “unconscionable given the appalling loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there”.
According to The Guardian, RTÉ will air a repeat of the sitcom Father Ted rather than carrying the finale in protest.
Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS accused Israel of using the contest “as a political instrument”.
However, a spokesperson for Australia’s SBS told the ABC, “our position remains that, as a public broadcaster, making a decision to be involved based on the inclusion or exclusion of any country would undermine SBS’s editorial independence and impartiality”.
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Protests against Israel planned at Eurovision
Protests against Israel have been held over the past few years, in the context of the growing conflict in the Middle East.
However, there is also planned crowd support of Israel and its 28-year-old performer, Noam Bettan.
Bettan said: “I feel amazing, I’m proud to be here, I’m happy to be here. I value this place [Israel] so much, I’ve waited for this for so many, many years.”
The ABC reports that Vienna police have spoken of the security measures attendees can expect.
“There will in fact be blockades and disruptive actions, particularly on the day of the final, whether through authorised or unauthorised gatherings,” said Xenia Zauner, a senior police official.
Delta Goodrem represents Australia at Eurovision
Australia will be represented at the event by Delta Goodrem.
The 41-year-old will perform her new single Eclipse in the second semifinal on Thursday, local time.
“I feel very honoured and grateful to be a part of what is an institution of 70 years of amazing music,” Goodrem said on Sunday at a press conference in Vienna.
Delta Goodrem
At the time of her announcement last year, Goodrem said, “I’m so honoured to represent Australia on one of the biggest and most iconic stages in the world at Eurovision!
“As a singer-songwriter, music has been my lifelong passion. I’ve always loved the creativity, individuality, and joy Eurovision brings, connecting and uniting people across the globe through music: the universal language. I can’t wait to arrive in Vienna and make Australia proud.”
Main image: The streets of Sweden. Martin Meissner/AP