Switzerland Hosts Controversial Eurovision 2025 Amid Protests, Political Tensions

Switzerland is set to host the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel for the first time since 1989, but this year’s event is overshadowed by controversy surrounding Israel's participation due to its military actions in Gaza, prompting protests and accusations of double standards compared to Russia’s exclusion after invading Ukraine. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) maintains that Eurovision should remain focused on music and not politics, and has defended Israel’s inclusion by citing its representation through a public broadcaster rather than the government. In an effort to reinforce neutrality, new rules restrict performers and delegations to displaying only their country’s official flag in official Eurovision spaces, disappointing some LGBTQ+ and activist groups who see this as a limitation on self-expression. Meanwhile, audience members will be able to wave a broader range of banners, including Pride and Palestine flags, provided they comply with Swiss law. Contest director Martin Green expressed hope that Eurovision will continue to unite people through music despite ongoing political tensions. The contest also continues to attract significant attention from the LGBTQ+ community and remains a global cultural phenomenon.