Lithuania’s Eurovision Exit: Gražulis’ Controversial Petition Sparks Debate

Petras Gražulis, now an MEP, has sparked controversy by initiating a petition calling for Lithuania to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest. He claims the event has become a tool for LGBT propaganda, far removed from its musical roots.

Eurovision: A Platform for Music or a Political Tool?

Petras Gražulis, newly elected to the European Parliament, has set his sights on shaking up the musical world with a bold proposal: Lithuania should withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest. Gražulis argues that Eurovision has strayed from its original purpose, becoming a platform for LGBT advocacy rather than a competition focused on musical talent.

Gražulis announced his petition with a passionate plea: «EUROVISION NO MORE FOR LITHUANIA! My dear friends, we cannot ignore your requests to address the Eurovision issue.» His petition, which has already garnered 1,099 signatures, claims that the contest no longer celebrates music but rather showcases «demonstrations of sexual deviance and their show elements.»

A Costly Endeavour

Gražulis highlights the financial burden Eurovision places on Lithuania, noting that «each year, Lithuania spends hundreds of thousands of taxpayer euros on the Eurovision contest.» He argues that these funds would be better spent on family-oriented events that promote traditional values. According to Gražulis, Turkey and Hungary have already withdrawn from Eurovision, and Latvia is considering a similar move.

A Call to Action

The petition urges Lithuania’s leaders to act swiftly: «We call on the leaders of Lithuania to cease participation in Eurovision as soon as possible, following the examples of Türkiye and Hungary, and potentially Latvia.» The proposed alternative is a national family event celebrating traditional values, to be held in mid-May to coincide with International Family Day.

Eurovision’s Changing Landscape

Gražulis’ critique of Eurovision is not without precedent. The contest has evolved significantly since its inception, embracing diverse performances and participants. This year’s contest, he claims, was marked by «sessions of Satanism, parades of homosexuals, transsexuals, and non-binary individuals,» which he sees as detracting from the contest’s musical focus.

Controversial Claims

One of Gražulis’ most controversial points is the claim that Eurovision allows LGBT symbols while banning the European Union flag, suggesting a bias in the event’s organisation. «The fact that the use of the EU flag was banned while LGBT rainbow flags were freely allowed says more about Eurovision than necessary,» he stated in his petition.

A Divisive Move

Gražulis’ petition has ignited debate in Lithuania and beyond. Supporters agree that Eurovision has become overly politicised and that national funds could be better allocated. Critics argue that Gražulis’ stance is rooted in intolerance and fails to recognise the inclusive spirit that Eurovision aims to foster.

The Broader Implications

The petition raises important questions about the role of Eurovision and similar cultural events. Should they remain purely musical, or is there value in them evolving to reflect broader social changes? Gražulis’ petition, whether it succeeds or not, highlights the tension between tradition and progress, and the ongoing debate about the intersection of culture and politics in public events.

As the petition makes its way to Lithuania’s parliament, government, and president, the future of Lithuania’s participation in Eurovision hangs in the balance, reflecting broader cultural and political currents within the country and across Europe.

Source: Delfi.lt