This weekend's Eurovision Song Contest will have Ukrainian flags, Ukrainian musicians and Ukrainian fans -- but not the country's wartime leader.
The European Broadcasting Union, which runs Eurovision, said that letting Zelenskyy participate would breach "the nonpolitical nature of the event."
Zelenskyy's request "to address the audience at the Eurovision Song Contest, whilst made with laudable intentions, regrettably cannot be granted by the European Broadcasting Union management as it would be against the rules of the event," the organization said. Founded in 1956 to help heal a continent shattered by war, Eurovision strives to keep pop and politics separate. Overtly political lyrics, signs and symbols are banned.
But politics can't be shut out entirely. Russia was banned from the contest after it invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Belarus had been kicked out the previous year over its government's clampdown on dissent.Acts from 26 countries will compete in Saturday's live final at the Liverpool Arena, which will be co-hosted by Ukrainian singer Julia Sanina.
"We believe that this is the best way to reflect and celebrate Ukraine's Eurovision Song Contest win and show we are united by music during these hard times," the broadcasting union said.
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Ukrainian singer Jamala to perform new album for EurovisionJamala and the orchestra were supposed be on stage, but they are sheltering in a basement. Warnings of shelling and missile attacks had them below ground at the Kyiv Opera House instead of getting ready to perform for an audience.
Read more »
A first timer’s guide to EurovisionThe Eurovision Song Contest is the campiest and longest-running music competition in the world. Here’s what Canadians need to know before watching
Read more »
Canada’s La Zarra looks to end France’s 46-year Eurovision droughtHand-picked by France, Fatima Zahra Hafdi will need to win over both the public and the jury to beat out the 25 other countries competing in the finals on May 13
Read more »
Video: Sweden’s Loreen eyes second Eurovision winSwedish singer Loreen is gearing up to take a second run at the Eurovision Song Contest, more than ten years after she won the top prize in Azerbaijan in 2012 with her breakout hit 'Euphoria.'
Read more »
VIDEO: Clever training formula lands rider top prize in BC Bike Race video contest - Terrace StandardVIDEO: Clever training formula lands rider top prize in BC Bike Race video contest
Read more »
Canadian military commits to training Ukrainian soldiers in Latvia as war drags onDefence Minister Anita Anand announced Tuesday that Canadian military members and their Latvian counterparts will begin training Ukrainian soldiers in Latvia as soon as next week.
Read more »