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Russia banned from Eurovision Song Contest 2022

"In light of the unprecedented crisis in Ukraine, the inclusion of a Russian entry in this year’s Contest would bring the competition into disrepute."

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Russia will no longer be allowed to participate in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, the European Broadcasting Union has said.

The move is an about face from their position just 24 hours earlier, and a history of sidestepping politics.

It comes as State broadcasters including Iceland, Norway and the Netherlands had called for Russia to be banned from the contest and Finland which said it would refuse to participate if Russia proceeded.

In a statement the European Broadcasting Union said, “The Executive Board of the EBU made the decision following a recommendation earlier today by the Eurovision Song Contest‘s governing body, the Reference Group, based on the rules of the event and the values of the EBU.

“The Reference Group recommendation was also supported by the EBU’s Television Committee.

“The decision reflects concern that, in light of the unprecedented crisis in Ukraine, the inclusion of a Russian entry in this year’s Contest would bring the competition into disrepute.

“Before making this decision the EBU took time to consult widely among its membership.

“The EBU is an apolitical member organization of broadcasters committed to upholding the values of public service.

“We remain dedicated to protecting the values of a cultural competition which promotes international exchange and understanding, brings audiences together, celebrates diversity through music and unites Europe on one stage.”

Russia’s act for 2022 was yet to be announced.

8 Responses

  1. I think you have to be very naive to think that these events and sport in general can exist in a world which completely ignores the “politics” of the countries represented in them. An invasion goes way further than “politics” though – this isn’t an expulsion about Putin’s tax policy for example.

    There are also logistical issues to consider – practically speaking even if they were welcome they may not be able to attend and you certainly don’t want to risk next years contest being there. Also arguably it’s in the interest of their performers – we all saw how their act was treated last time they invaded Ukraine (and the world ignored it!). Even though the words of that act this week may remove any sympathy it’s not fair to subject someone to that, whether they’re a puppet of Putin or actually oppose them.

  2. Good! The time has come for the world to wake up and do something. Ukraine today, Estonia in 6 months and so on it could go with this terrible leader. It’s a song contest but any kind of action or protest from peaceful countries sends a message.

  3. Can you imagine what would happen if Russia did participate. Remember 2014?
    “Russia’s Tolmachevy Sisters were booed in Copenhagen as they qualified for the final of the Eurovision Song Contest” …

    1. I wouldn’t condone booing though I would have understanding if there was booing during the awarding of votes when they cross to the EBU associate as it is linked to the government. Though booing the artists if they do not have open political views reflects badly on the crowd.

      That could be a situation altogether that the Reference Group is trying to avoid.

  5. I’m not sure about this, Eurovision is either apolitical or it’s not. If they are now getting involved in politics will need to explain their position on Israel.

  7. It should be about the music, and separation from the governments, the people and the artists or bands. But with the association with the EBU, if they can’t be united then it’s probably untenable to include Russia.

    They try to sidestep politics but we’ve seen over the years that there are country voting blocs and votes being given because of friendly relations between countries instead of the merits of the songs.

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