“The European flag stands for our values, for our European identification, for inclusion — and for the citizenship of almost half a billion folks,” he stated. “If nationwide flags belong on stage, the European flag does too.”
Solely nationwide flags of taking part nations are allowed on stage, in inexperienced rooms and on the turquoise carpet, the place artists make their grand entrance. The identical prohibition applies to different flags, such because the rainbow flag, which has beforehand been a frequent staple on the contest.
“Younger Europeans mustn’t want permission to wave their flag,” Micallef added. “If the EBU retains it off the stage, allow them to make it the loudest image within the crowd!”
Eurovision has lengthy billed itself as apolitical, although in apply politics usually rears its head on the contest, which is televised in dozens of nations and considered by lots of of tens of millions globally.
Forward of final yr’s remaining, 1000’s of protesters waving Palestinian flags gathered in Malmö. When Israel’s contestant Eden Golan took the stage, she obtained a torrent of boos and cheers.
