In 2024, Israel participated in both the Eurovision Song Contest and the Olympic Games. Despite their shared vision of unity and respect, Eurovision did not succeed in a mission where the Olympics achieved remarkable success. So, what went wrong with our beloved competition?
The Eurovision Song Contest in 2024 will be remembered as the controversial and violent edition in its history. Over its 68 years, Eurovision has been tested in its promise to serve as a bridge between nations and cultures, promoting respectful, inclusive, and loving dialogue that accepts everyone regardless of sexual orientation, ethnic origin, or artistic style.
However, this year in Malmö, the vision of Eurovision failed. Despite the slogan “United By Music,” the competition’s reputation suffered, mainly due to its handling of Israel’s participation amid the ongoing war and tensions in the Middle East. Two and a half months later, when the Olympic torch was lit in Paris, we witnessed a different scenario, one that was supposed to share values with Eurovision but succeeded where the music competition did not.
Instead of boos, there was respect. Instead of isolation, there were hugs on the medals podium. Instead of alienation and politicization, the anthem played without interruption or violence. What went wrong with Eurovision, and what can be learned from the Olympic Games?
Contrasting Experiences: From Eurovision Turmoil to Olympic Unity
Less than three months after the world’s largest music event ended in turmoil, the Olympic Games opened in Paris. There, Israel participated in the world’s largest sporting event, sharing with Eurovision its vision for an inclusive, united reality. Eden Golan, Israel’s representative and fifth-place winner at Eurovision 2024 with her song “Hurricane,” faced boos, ostracism, and aggression from quite a few participating delegations, along with an unprecedented campaign to oust her from the competition.
The Eurovision season did not offer Israel or the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation “Kan” any satisfaction, acceptance, empathy, or a sense of participation in the unity so beautifully depicted in Eurovision posters in Sweden.
In Paris, the Israeli delegation received a warm embrace and professional respect, despite attempts to disqualify Israel from the Olympics (which were rejected by the International Olympic Committee). Almost no boos were heard, and the majority of Olympic athletes showed respect towards their Israeli rivals, except in a few expected cases involving athletes from Arab countries. Despite the isolation of the Israeli delegation due to security needs, the event in Paris showcased a different atmosphere and values than Eurovision – encouragement on the podium, professionalism, respectful games, and an audience that respected the athletes.
Respect for Artists vs. Respect for Athletes: What Wins?
If we compare the Olympic Games to Eurovision, it’s clear that Eurovision artists as a group do not win the gold medal for respect for others. The contest has been filled with political and personal scandals, and this year, it seems some artists forgot basic respect for others. Some argue that the values of Eurovision artists, often associated with LGBTQ affiliation, liberalism, and individualism, are characterized by egocentrism and self-glorification. However, not all artists fit this stereotype; many are known for their modesty and big hearts.
If we compare the Olympic Games to Eurovision, it’s clear that Eurovision artists, as a group, do not win the gold medal for respect for others. The contest has been filled with political and personal scandals, and this year, it seems some artists forgot basic respect for others. Some argue that the values of Eurovision artists, often associated with LGBTQ affiliation, liberalism, and individualism, are characterized by egocentrism and self-glorification. However, not all artists fit this stereotype; many are known for their modesty and big hearts.
In contrast, athletes are educated from a young age on respect, sportsmanship, and striving for excellence. They learn to respect and accept losses and express victories in a non-provocative manner. Of course, there are exceptions, such as athletes unwilling to shake hands with Israeli colleagues due to concerns about reactions in their home countries.
The Israeli rhythmic gymnastics team returns to the Olympic village after winning a silver medal:
הצגת פוסט זה באינסטגרם
Complexity and Respect
Complexity exists on both sides, for both artists and athletes. However, this year, athletes demonstrated a notable level of respect for their colleagues from the Israeli delegation at the Olympic Games. This respect was evident in various events, such as athletes bowing before and after judo matches, leaving the field gracefully, and sharing photos on the podium.
Unlike the Eurovision Song Contest, most athletes maintained a positive atmosphere and managed to set aside political-security issues. The audience, composed of hundreds of thousands of spectators from around the world, including some from countries not particularly friendly towards Israel, also showed respect. In the vast majority of the games, there were no humiliating boos or pro-Palestinian political chants, and even the Israeli audience managed to set aside domestic tensions for clean and neutral games.
In contrast, Eurovision was marred by controversy. Eden Golan faced humiliating boos during her performance, amid tensions with representatives from many participating countries, notably led by the Irish representative Bambie Thug. This year, Eurovision became an arena of hate and politicization.
Eurovision has evolved into a “gay-friendly” event, popular among liberal and progressive audiences. While this should reflect inclusivity, it has led to a shift in the competition’s character. Some members of this audience, particularly a WOKE group, have used the platform to promote personal interests, political agendas, and ideological clashes, straying from Eurovision’s original vision of unity and peace. Founded after World War II with a promise of “no more war,” Eurovision has become embroiled in the Middle East conflict.
The competition’s management and production seemed paralyzed by these changes, adhering to a formal and rigid framework. After the competition, they initiated an investigation to preserve Eurovision’s foundations. Change should have come long ago, independent of geopolitical issues.
Eurovision, which launched stars like Celine Dion and ABBA, has struggled to serve as a bridge for love and international dialogue. It should look to the Paris Olympics as a model of respect, human connection, and unity. If Eurovision can learn from the Olympic Games, it might transform the Malmö 2024 edition from a disaster into a stepping stone to greater heights.
The main message is clear: put politics aside, respect the art, and enjoy the songs.
Israel in Eurovision 2024
“Hurricane” is the name of the song performed by singer Eden Golan, who was selected to represent Israel after winning the tenth season of “HaHochav Haba.” Israel advanced to the final after winning the second semi-final with 194 points, and finished in fifth place in the grand final with 375 points. In the public vote, Israel came in second, just 14 points behind the first place.
This is the second consecutive time that Israel has reached the top five, an achievement it had not reached since the successful streak in 1998-1999.
Eurovision 2025: This will be Israel’s 47th participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. Israel joined the competition in 1973 and has won it four times over the years. Israel’s most recent victory was in Eurovision 2018 with the song “Toy” performed by the singer Netta Barzilai.
