EBU reacts to Nemo’s protest as tensions around Eurovision deepen

The European Broadcasting Union has offered a cautious, almost apologetic response after Nemo announced they would return their Eurovision trophy in protest at Israel’s continued place in the competition.

Martin Green, who directs the Eurovision Song Contest, said the organisation was “saddened” by the move and that Nemo’s views were “respected”. It was a short, careful statement, clearly designed not to ignite another fire at a moment when the contest is already struggling to keep its footing.

What the EBU didn’t do was engage with Nemo’s criticism. The Swiss artist argued that allowing Israel to compete sits awkwardly with Eurovision’s public claims about unity, dignity and inclusion. That point was left untouched. Instead, the EBU kept to the safe line: regret, respect and business as usual.

Their response reflects the discomfort inside the organisation. Israel’s place in the contest has become a flashpoint, fuelled by the war in Gaza and a voting scandal at this year’s event. Several broadcasters have already announced they won’t take part in 2026. Nemo returning the trophy is not a small gesture; it hits at the heart of Eurovision’s credibility.

The EBU would very much like all this to blow over. But right now, the contest is not only a song festival. It is a mirror of the political world around it, whether the organisers admit it or not. And no amount of diplomatic phrasing from Geneva is going to hide that.

Source: BBC