Eurovision organizer Österdahl: The decision to exclude Russia from the competition was difficult
MOSCOW, December 31 – RIA Novosti. The organizer of the contest, Martin Osterdahl, said on the radio that removing Russia from Eurovision was not an easy decision. BBC 4.
“(The decision to exclude Russia. – Approx. ed.) It was tough. And it’s tough now. What Europe thinks has a very strong influence on competition,” said Osterdahl.
He also noted that the songs performed at Eurovision always reflect the spirit of the time and events in Europe.
In addition, the Eurovision supervisor said that the decision to ban the participation of Russian contestants “corresponds to the values of the West: solidarity, mutual aid and unity through music.”
“What is the mood and feeling of Europe – such is the social context. When we say we are outside of politics, we must always defend the fundamental and highest values of democracy,” he added.
On February 25, 2022, it was learned that the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) suspended Russia’s participation in Eurovision. The organization explained this decision with concern over the crisis in Ukraine, as Russian involvement could “harm the reputation” of the competition.
Source: Ria
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