Eurovision contestants grapple with Gaza diplomacy ahead of this year's competition

It’s been a strange year for Europop connoisseurs, who are conflicted about whether they should watch this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.

on social media, IsraelThe addition sparked talk of a boycott by those opposed to the country’s actions. Gaza.

For British entrants, the diplomacy of it all is a tricky business Ollie Alexander who is performing His song “Dizziness” He limits interviews with the media as much as possible.

The singer was one of the star highlights of London’s LEP24 Eurovision Song Contest Party – an annual opportunity for performers to showcase their songs and captivate any potential voters in a special warm-up show.

While Alexander has changed his tune even while being photographed by the media at events, some of his competitors have been more candid about their situations.

Gothic “rebel” Bambie Thug, represented Irelandadmits that trying to avoid politics is challenging – a prerequisite for competition organizers.

Speaking about the situation in Gaza, they said: “I just want it to stop.

“It’s funny how far we are from our consciousness and our humanity.”

Bambie Thug, Alexander and several other artists have signed a statement Calling for an “immediate and lasting ceasefire” in Gaza.

FinlandWindows95man also wrote his name on it.

Windows95man, the alter ego of Finnish DJ Teemu Keisteri, had to answer disturbing questions about the matter, saying: “Politics is everywhere… but we want to focus on our show… I want to focus on being happy and happiness.”

For some fans and venues, ignoring the wider political situation is problematic.

Rio Cinema in Dalston, East Londonhas said the annual screening will not be held this year.

In a statement from

Of course, there are ways to speak out without breaking the rules.

Conchita Wurst’s win in 2014 with her bearded drag act was itself a victory for LGBT rights.

“Art is always a reflection of the current state of the world, so you can’t separate it, it’s always a commentary on the artist and how people feel,” they said.

On the face of it, this year’s Eurovision Song Contest should be exciting.