Story perspectives

Eurovision Winner Nemo Returns Trophy in Protest Against Israel

12/12/2025

Summary

Story summary

On December 11, 2025, Nemo, the Swiss artist and Eurovision 2024 winner, announced they will return the trophy in protest of Israel's participation.
The protest centers on Israel's involvement contradicting Eurovision's values of unity, inclusion, and dignity for all, particularly amid the Gaza conflict.
The European Broadcasting Union did not expel Israel, while Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland announced a boycott for the 2026 contest.

History

Historical Context

The Eurovision Song Contest, established in 1956, has faced political controversies throughout its history. In 1970, Spain withdrew in protest against perceived political implications, marking the first major boycott. Recent protests against Israel's participation echo past tensions, as seen in 2025 when 72 former contestants called for Israel's exclusion, highlighting ongoing conflicts that challenge Eurovision's ideals of unity and inclusion.

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Story summary

On December 11, 2025, Nemo, the Swiss artist and Eurovision 2024 winner, announced they will return the trophy in protest of Israel's participation.
The protest centers on Israel's involvement contradicting Eurovision's values of unity, inclusion, and dignity for all, particularly amid the Gaza conflict.
The European Broadcasting Union did not expel Israel, while Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland announced a boycott for the 2026 contest.

1 / 2