Lithuanian Politician Petitions to Withdraw from Eurovision

Petras Gražulis, a newly appointed Member of the European Parliament, has stirred controversy by submitting a petition for Lithuania to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest. The petition, which has already garnered 1,340 signatures, has sparked a heated debate about the cultural and financial implications of participating in the annual event.

Gražulis argues that Eurovision has strayed far from its original purpose as a song contest, claiming it now serves as a platform for LGBT propaganda and incurring significant costs to taxpayers. He proposes reallocating the funds to support family-oriented events instead.

«Lithuania spends hundreds of thousands of taxpayer money on Eurovision each year. Unfortunately, this year’s event proved that it has nothing to do with songs any more. Instead, it has become a tool for promoting LGBT propaganda,» stated Gražulis. He further criticized the contest for allowing LGBT symbols while banning the European Union flag.

The public broadcaster LRT responded firmly, emphasizing Eurovision’s massive viewership and cultural significance. «The 2024 Eurovision Song Contest attracted 163 million viewers worldwide, making it one of the largest international television events. In Lithuania, Eurovision is the most-watched television programme of the year, drawing about one million viewers annually,» LRT noted.

Gražulis’s petition is part of a broader movement, with similar initiatives seen in Turkey, Hungary, and Latvia. However, LRT remains committed to participating in Eurovision, citing its role in uniting and educating the public.

Lithuania’s Eurovision Journey 

Lithuania debuted in Eurovision in 1994 and has participated ever since, except for a few years. Despite several attempts, Lithuania remains the only Baltic country yet to win the coveted crystal microphone. The country’s best result came in 2006, when LT United finished sixth with their song «We Are the Winners.»

Source: Delfi.lt