Eurovision Camerawoman Considers Legal Action Following Decision to Halt Investigation into Joost Klein Incident
In the latest twist surrounding the controversial incident involving Dutch singer Joost Klein at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, the Swedish camerawoman who accused Klein of making a threatening gesture is now contemplating legal steps to challenge the decision by the Swedish Public Prosecutor’s Office to close the investigation. Her lawyer, Kristoffer Ståhl, made this announcement on Monday, suggesting that this story may be far from over.
«An Unexpected and Traumatic Experience»
The camerawoman, whose identity has been protected throughout the case, claims that what happened backstage in Malmö left her deeply shaken. «My client did not expect this to happen at a place where music, inclusion, and diversity are celebrated. It was a very traumatic experience for her,» said Ståhl. «She is currently considering whether to challenge the decision to halt the investigation.»
The incident in question occurred in May during the Eurovision Song Contest, an event traditionally known for its festive spirit and positive message. However, this year’s competition was marred by allegations of misconduct after Klein, representing the Netherlands, was accused of threatening the camerawoman. The incident led to his immediate disqualification, leaving Klein and his delegation stunned and disheartened.
Earlier this week, the Swedish prosecutor Fredrik Jönsson announced that the case was being closed due to insufficient evidence, explaining that the accounts of the incident from both parties were conflicting. «The investigation indicated that Mr Klein made a gesture that inadvertently touched the camera, but it is impossible to determine whether it constituted criminal behaviour,» Jönsson stated.
Despite this, the camerawoman’s lawyer insists that her trauma remains unresolved. «The prosecutor’s decision can be appealed to a higher authority, and if they find the original ruling incorrect, the investigation could be reopened,» Ståhl confirmed.
Legal Tensions Continue to Escalate
Complicating matters further is the lack of clarity surrounding the terms under which the filming backstage took place. Klein’s team and Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS maintain that there was an agreement prohibiting backstage filming of Klein after his performance. However, Ståhl disputes this, stating that no such understanding was reached. «My client treated Mr Klein with the same professionalism and respect as she did with all other contestants,» the lawyer emphasized, pushing back against claims of unfair treatment.
For now, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes Eurovision, has firmly stood by its decision to disqualify Klein from the contest. «The EBU prioritizes the mental and physical safety of all its staff,» said a representative, adding that they believe the decision was in full accordance with the rules of the competition.
A Case That Won’t Go Away
Though the legal proceedings seem to have come to a temporary halt, the tension between the parties involved shows no signs of abating. AVROTROS and the NPO (Dutch public broadcaster) have indicated they plan to meet with the EBU in the coming weeks to discuss what they view as an unjust disqualification. Meanwhile, the camerawoman continues to weigh her options, and if she does decide to take further legal action, this already contentious issue may resurface in the courts.
The Eurovision Song Contest, an event normally characterized by its celebration of creativity and unity, finds itself overshadowed by an incident that threatens to linger long after the music has stopped. While Klein has expressed relief at the closing of the investigation, the possible reopening of the case casts a shadow over what should have been a clear resolution for the Dutch artist.
For now, the world watches and waits to see whether this post-Eurovision controversy will be laid to rest, or whether it will erupt once again, possibly leaving more questions than answers in its wake.
Source: RTL. nl
