Summary of Why Did 12 Countries Quit Eurovision?
The video discusses the withdrawal of 12 countries from the Eurovision Song Contest, exploring the reasons behind each departure and the potential for future returns. The Eurovision Song Contest, known for its massive global audience, has seen countries leave for various reasons, including political, financial, and cultural factors.
- Russia: Russia was expelled from Eurovision in 2022 due to its invasion of Ukraine. This marked a significant moment as it was the first time a country was removed for political reasons. The Russian broadcasters remain suspended from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), making a return unlikely while the conflict continues.
- Monaco: Monaco has not participated since the mid-2000s due to poor results and complaints about voting patterns. However, a new broadcaster has emerged, and there are indications that Monaco may consider returning to Eurovision in the future.
- Morocco: Morocco participated only once in 1980 and has not returned due to its stance on Israel. While normalization agreements have been established, Morocco's conservative values and public opinion make participation unlikely for now.
- Andorra: Andorra withdrew due to financial constraints and has not returned since 2009. There was some hope for a return in 2020, but it did not materialize.
- Belarus: Belarus dropped out in 2021 after submitting a politically charged entry related to protests against the government. The country has been suspended indefinitely from the EBU due to state interference with its broadcaster.
- Slovakia: Slovakia has had a troubled history with Eurovision, withdrawing due to financial issues and political changes in the country that have impacted its broadcaster.
- Hungary: Hungary's withdrawal coincided with a rise in anti-LGBT rhetoric from the government. The national broadcaster has shifted its focus away from Eurovision, making a return unlikely.
- Bosnia and Herzegovina: Financial struggles have plagued Bosnia's broadcaster, preventing participation since 2012. The situation remains dire, with significant debt owed to the EBU.
- Turkey: Turkey withdrew due to dissatisfaction with the voting system and political sentiments expressed by its broadcaster. Discussions for a potential return have not yielded results.
- Romania and Bulgaria: Both countries have experienced fluctuating interest in Eurovision, leading to recent withdrawals. Financial constraints and low public interest have hindered their participation, but there is a possibility of returning in the next few years.
- North Macedonia: North Macedonia last participated in 2022 and expressed intentions to return, but chose to focus on other national celebrations in 2024. Despite financial constraints, there are optimistic signs for a future return.
Overall, while some countries show potential for returning to Eurovision, many face significant barriers related to finances, politics, and public sentiment. The video concludes with a hopeful note that the number of participants could increase in the coming years, but the days of having over 40 countries may be over.
Presenters/Contributors
- The main presenter is not explicitly named, but there is mention of an editor named Jay.
Notable Quotes
— 01:26 — « That obviously is why they withdrew or rather were kicked out from the contest in the show's entire history. »
— 02:18 — « There's no way that Russia can participate in the contest as long as the invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. »
— 04:28 — « Eurovision has been about more than just the songs for a very long time. »
— 16:48 — « It is destroying the country's core institutions, not just this one, and it needs to stop. »
— 18:48 — « I'm not particularly willing to bend over backwards and make accommodations for a broadcaster that has expressed sentiments like the ones I just referenced. »
Category
News and Commentary