ESC in Vienna: Icelandic Broadcaster RÚV Not Participating

The broadcaster RÚV announced this on Wednesday afternoon after a vote. Like Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Ireland, the catalyst for this decision is that the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) recently paved the way for Israel's participation.

"In light of the public debate in our country and the reactions to the EBU decision last week, it is clear that neither joy nor peace would prevail if RÚV participated in Eurovision," said General Director Stefán Eiríksson after the meeting. During the meeting, a pro-Palestinian demonstration outside the RÚV headquarters strongly advocated for the Icelandic withdrawal.

"The matter is now decided, and Icelanders now know that we will not participate in the Song Contest - for reasons everyone knows. And I personally say: Congratulations Iceland!" said RÚV Supervisory Board Chairman Stefán Jón Hafstein.

On Tuesday, Icelandic Minister of Culture and Media Logi Einarsson stated to RÚV that it would be regrettable if Iceland participated, now that it is clear that Israel will not be excluded. However, this was his personal opinion, and he did not want to interfere in the broadcaster's affairs.

Iceland was a borderline candidate for Vienna participation

The Icelandic broadcaster was considered a borderline candidate. The management wanted to decide on Wednesday, the last possible day for registration for the mega event, whether to participate or not.

Spain, as one of the "Big Five," Slovenia, Ireland, and the Netherlands had already canceled. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) recently assumed that about 35 broadcasters would participate. The complete list of participants will be published before Christmas, it was said.

More about the ESC

(APA/Red)

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