Full Breakdown
Romania's Eurovision Entry "Choke Me" Faces Backlash for Glamorizing Sexual Strangulation
3/14/2026, 12:25:37 PM
Controversial Lyrics and Health Concerns
Romania's entry for the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, "Choke Me," performed by Alexandra Capitanescu, has sparked significant criticism for its lyrics, which many argue glamorize sexual strangulation. The song features the phrase "choke me" repeated 30 times, alongside lines such as "It’s hard to breathe in" and "make my lungs explode." Critics, including Clare McGlynn, a professor of law at Durham University, have labeled the song "dangerous" and "reckless," emphasizing that it reflects a troubling normalization of a practice linked to severe health risks, including brain injury and death.
Background on Sexual Strangulation
Research indicates that over half of sexually active individuals under 35 have experienced strangulation, with a notable percentage mistakenly believing there are safe methods for such acts. Studies have shown that repeated strangulation can lead to brain changes associated with anxiety and depression. McGlynn has highlighted the urgent need for better education regarding the dangers of strangulation, noting that many young women feel pressured to engage in such practices despite their reservations.
Official Responses and Defenses
Capitanescu has defended her song, asserting that the lyrics metaphorically express feelings of being overwhelmed by emotions and self-doubt. The Romanian broadcaster's YouTube channel describes "Choke Me" as a reflection of the emotional struggles faced by young artists, aiming to convey a powerful and authentic musical experience. However, this defense has not quelled the backlash, with many Eurovision fans calling for the song to be disqualified or for its lyrics to be altered.
Criticism and Calls for Action
The backlash against "Choke Me" has been amplified by campaigners against sexual violence, who argue that the song's message poses a threat to young women's health and well-being. McGlynn has pointed out that the song's promotion by Eurovision and associated organizations represents a troubling disregard for these issues. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has previously intervened in similar situations, modifying or disqualifying entries that contained inappropriate content, although no formal complaint has been lodged against Romania's entry as of now.
Broader Implications and Context
This year's Eurovision contest, set to take place in Vienna, is already mired in controversy, including calls for a boycott due to Israel's participation. Countries such as Ireland and Spain have expressed their discontent, citing humanitarian concerns related to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. The combination of these controversies adds complexity to the public discourse surrounding "Choke Me" and the overall integrity of the Eurovision Song Contest.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The song – and its choice by Romania/Eurovision, and promotion by those organisations – represents a reckless normalisation of a dangerous practice,” — Clare McGlynn, Professor of Law at Durham University
- “She said: “They know what they’re doing and they’re using a topic that is now popular and normalised through porn culture, which is really dangerous.” — Clare McGlynn, Professor of Law at Durham University
As the contest approaches, the debate surrounding "Choke Me" continues to evolve, reflecting broader societal concerns about the portrayal of sexual practices in popular culture and their implications for young audiences.
