The Global Story Putin’s new Eurovision
Sep 19, 2025
In a riveting discussion, Steve Rosenberg, BBC Russia editor and Eurovision aficionado, delves into the revival of Intervision, a Soviet-era song contest. He shares insights on its Cold War roots and contrasts it with Eurovision, highlighting Kremlin's soft-power motives. Steve questions the timing of the revival amidst the ongoing geopolitical climate and analyzes the significance of the U.S. entry. With humor and depth, he reveals how music intertwines with politics and international relations.
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Soft Power Makeover
- Russia is using the revived Intervision as soft power to present a friendlier image amid the war in Ukraine.
- The Kremlin aims to showcase culture to counterbalance negative headlines about the conflict.
A Contest Russia Can Join
- Intervision's revival serves to create a contest Russia can actually join after its Eurovision ban in 2022.
- The contest emphasizes traditional cultural values to challenge perceived Western cultural dominance.
Traditional Values Front And Center
- Intervision frames itself around 'traditional' and 'family' cultural values rather than Eurovision's diverse, glitzy style.
- Organizers explicitly position performances to reflect spiritual, ethical, and religious traditions.