Eurovision 2025: Switzerland Prepares for Controversial Song Contest

BASSEL, Switzerland — The 69th Eurovision Song Contest is set to take place on May 17, 2025, in Basel, drawing attention with its unique blend of music and performance. However, the contest faces significant controversy this year, particularly regarding Israel’s participation amid ongoing conflict.

Officials from the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) announced that this year’s competition will feature 37 countries, including fan favorites like Sweden’s KAJ with their song ‘Bara Bada Bastu.’ Switzerland is hosting the event after last year’s winner, Nemo, triumphed with ‘The Code.’

The contest will occur at the Jakobshalle arena, accommodating 12,000 attendees. Each year, countries submit original songs for performers to showcase live, with a mix of jury and public voting determining the winner. This year, however, protests are ramping up against Israel’s entry, as critics cite its military actions in Gaza.

Following two semifinals earlier this month, 26 acts will compete in the final. Among them is Israel’s Yuval Raphael, who expressed anticipation of mixed reactions during her performance of ‘New Day Will Rise,’ as she is a survivor of last year’s Nova music festival massacre attributed to Hamas.

Recent weeks have seen around 70 former Eurovision contestants calling for Israel’s exclusion, arguing that the EBU should address perceived double standards, particularly noting Russia’s exclusion after its invasion of Ukraine. Despite these protests, the EBU has reaffirmed its stance on maintaining neutrality in the event.

The final will be broadcast live across participating countries and streamed exclusively on Peacock in the U.S. In a media interview, Raphael stated she hopes to focus on her performance, despite expecting backlash. ‘I’m going to sing my heart out for everyone,’ she said.

As anticipation builds for this iconic music competition, the mixture of celebration and protest reflects the ongoing social and political complexities surrounding it, echoing sentiments previously shared by other contestants advocating for peace and unity.