Eurovision organiser urged to explain decision to exclude EU flag

Eurovision organiser urged to explain decision to exclude EU flag

Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President of the European Commission, has asked the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), organisers of the Eurovision Song Contest to explain why the European flag was absent from the event in Malmö, Sweden.

"Such actions cast a shadow over what is meant to be a joyous occasion for peoples across Europe," Mr. Schinas stated in a letter addressed to the EBU’s chairperson, Delphine Ernotte Cunci, and Martin Österdahl, who oversees the Eurovision song contest within the EBU.

In his letter Mr. Schinas, who also oversees ‘the European way of life,’ regretted that the EBU had prevented participants from waving the European flag during Saturday’s final.

"With the EU being targeted by malicious and authoritarian actors, EBU's decision contributed to discrediting a symbol that brings together all Europeans," Mr Schinas wrote.

Moreover, according to the EU commissioner, this occurred less than a month before the European elections, and at a time of geopolitical tensions, with the EU a target of malicious and authoritarian actors.

"The incoherence in the EBU's stance left myself and millions of viewers wondering for what and for whom the Eurovision Song Contest stands," Mr Schinas said.

The EU commissioner called on the EBU to "explain the rationale behind this decision and attribute responsibility where it is due."

He concluded by saying he expected the values of peace, tolerance, and inclusiveness to be treated with more respect in future.

Related News


Copyright © 2024 The Brussels Times. All Rights Reserved.