Nemo, last year’s Eurovision champion, announced yesterday that he is returning his 2024 trophy in protest over Israel’s continued participation, a move that has already led five countries to pull out.
“I no longer feel like this trophy belongs on my shelf,” the Swiss vocalist said on Instagram.
The Eurovision Song Contest, organized by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), faced backlash after its members decided on December 4 that no vote was needed on Israel’s inclusion, despite widespread opposition linked to the ongoing two-year conflict in Gaza.
Public broadcasters in Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland have all confirmed they will boycott the 70th edition of the contest, to be held in Vienna in May.
“Eurovision stands for unity, inclusion, and dignity for all people, and these values are what make the contest meaningful,” Nemo said. “But Israel’s continued participation, during what the UN’s Independent International Commission of Inquiry has deemed genocide, conflicts with these ideals.”
Iceland’s RUV state broadcaster announced its boycott earlier this week. “When entire countries withdraw, it should be very clear that something is deeply wrong,” Nemo added.
Nemo, 26, stated he is sending the trophy back to the EBU headquarters in Geneva “with gratitude and a clear message: live what you claim. Until then, this trophy is yours.”
The 2025 Eurovision edition in Basel, Switzerland, was won by Austrian singer JJ with Wasted Love, with about 37 countries participating. Around 35 are expected to compete in Vienna next year.
