Eurovision Was Once a Lighthearted Spectacle – Yet It Has Transformed Into a Cynical Way to Sanitize Conflict.
An recent term emerged a few months following the onset of the intensive bombing of Gaza by Israel. Referred to as WCNSF, it means “Wounded child, no surviving family”. This designation is unique to Gaza, according to doctors like child health specialists. Normally, it is uncommon for doctors to treat a child who has been bereaved of their complete family. Yet, there has been absolutely nothing ordinary regarding the widespread destruction in Gaza, where whole bloodlines have been wiped out and the number of child amputees is greater than that of any other region in the world. Nothing ordinary about numerous doctors returning from a devastated terrain with testimonies of children being deliberately targeted.
A Living Nightmare In Spite Of a Supposed Ceasefire
Conditions in Gaza persist as an utter catastrophe. Critical healthcare resources are failing to reach those in need, and major human rights organizations assert that genocidal acts are ongoing. The Israeli government disputes these accusations, consistent with how it disavows each claim it is accused of. Meanwhile, while traumatised orphans are now suffering from the cold in improvised encampments, there is a little heartwarming news: apparently nothing is going to stop the international singing competition from advancing its declared purpose of “togetherness and cultural exchange.” Eurovision will continue to roll out a welcoming platform for Israel, although at least four European countries have now pulled out in protest. Because this, apparently, is what global togetherness manifests as.
The contest, notably excluded Russia from taking part in 2022 due to the “unprecedented crisis in Ukraine”. Yet the conflict in Gaza appears to be treated differently.
A Double Standard
Forget the fact that Israel was alleged to have used unfair vote practices last year in what could be seen as an attempt to manipulate Eurovision. Forget the fact that a three-year-old girl was reportedly killed in Gaza on a recent Sunday. Forget the fact that settler violence and forced displacement in the West Bank have surged. Disregard the condition that international journalists are still blocked from unfettered access in Gaza. None of this, it would seem, should be seen as a barrier of Eurovision’s cherished spirit of unity.
The Contest Continues While Ignoring Profound Human Cost
The contest turns 70 next year – roughly two times the projected longevity of a person in Gaza now. The broadcast will air, but it will find it impossible to reclaim the whimsical pleasure it was formerly known for. A competition that once promoted togetherness has now become a transparent instrument to whitewash war.
