The Take Another Take: Eurovision 2024 - Divided over Israel
May 17, 2025
Nils Adler, an Al Jazeera producer based in Sweden, discusses the complex interplay of music and politics at the Eurovision Song Contest 2024. He highlights protests over Israel’s participation, igniting debates on identity and inclusion. The episode reveals the emotional turmoil surrounding an Israeli contestant’s choice to wear a Palestinian keffiyeh. Adler critiques the irony of Eurovision’s 'United by Music' slogan against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, showcasing how artistic expression clashes with calls for boycotts amid rising conflicts.
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Eurovision's Popularity & Style
- Eurovision is a kitsch, commercial music competition popular in Europe and beyond.
- It is especially massive in Sweden, with one in three Swedes watching the national qualification show.
Political Tensions in Eurovision 2024
- Israel's participation in Eurovision during the Gaza war has turned the event political and controversial.
- Malmö’s multicultural and anti-Zionist history intensifies tensions around this year’s contest.
Anti-Israel Protests & Alternatives
- In Malmö, over a thousand artists petitioned to ban Israel, with many withdrawing from associated events.
- Protest events like Palestine Vision and the Ship to Gaza offer alternative, family-friendly Eurovision celebrations.