The 66th annual Eurovision Song Contest, with semi-finals and finals set to take place May 10, 12 and 14 at the Pala Alpitour in Turn, Italy, will bar any act from Russia from the competition. The competition’s organizing body, the EBU, indicated in a statement issued on Feb. 25 that the restriction was prompted by the role that Russia has played in precipitating the current crisis in Ukraine.
The Feb. 25 statement issued by EBU follows:
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has announced that no Russian act will participate in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.
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.
For more information from EBU and Eurovision, go to www.eurovision.tv
