Swiss singer Nemo, winner of the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, is returning his trophy in protest at Israel’s inclusion in next year’s competition, deepening controversy surrounding the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) refusal to suspend the Apartheid State over its ongoing genocide in Gaza.
In a powerful statement shared on Instagram, Nemo said there was a clear conflict between Eurovision’s stated ideals of unity, inclusion and dignity for all, and its decision to allow a state accused of committing atrocities to take part.
This is not about individuals or artists, Nemo wrote. The contest was repeatedly used to soften the image of a state accused of severe wrongdoing, all while the EBU insisted Eurovision is non-political.
When entire countries withdraw over this contradiction, it should be clear that something is deeply and very wrong.
The 26-year-old artist added that they no longer felt the trophy belonged on the shelf, and would send it back to the EBU’s headquarters in Geneva.
Nemo’s protest comes amid growing backlash over Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2026, due to be held in six months.
Iceland’s national broadcaster, RÚV, became the latest to join the boycott, following decisions by Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia to withdraw.
Critics have condemned the EBU’s insistence that the contest is non-political, accusing the organization of hypocrisy for allowing Israel to remain while Palestinian civilians endure mass displacement, starvation, and military bombardment.
The Union also banned Russia over its intervention on eastern Ukraine. Despite growing calls for Israel’s exclusion, the EBU has defended its stance. In a statement, it said:
We’re saddened that Nemo wishes to return their trophy which they deservedly won in 2024. We respect the deeply held views Nemo has expressed and they will always remain a valued part of the Eurovision family.
Israel’s public broadcaster Kan welcomed the EBU’s decision to retain Israel in the contest, while Israeli President Isaac Herzog insisted that Israel deserves to be represented on every stage around the world.
Despite widespread opposition, Israel has effectively been cleared to take part in the 2026 Eurovision after members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) backed a series of reforms aimed at reinforcing trust, transparency and neutrality in the event.
The results of a secret vote on day one of the group’s meeting in Geneva showed that all EBU Members who wish to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 and agree to comply with the new rules are eligible to take part, it said in a statement.
The EBU said a large majority of members agreed that there was no need for a further vote on participation and that the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 should proceed as planned, with the additional safeguards in place.
Middle East Monitor / ABC Flash Point News 2025.
This time the transgender style entertainment event will be hosted by Austria, another Zionist controlled state that also feeds on misery of other people.
“They/them” should then give the trophy to the second place winner.. which is, guess who ?? Hahaha https://s.w.org/images/core/emoji/17.0.2/svg/1f923.svg
Heartwarming to see a person with real principles. When giving up on the world it is good to read this.
Wish there were more principled people around.