The Eurovision Song Contest Reference Group Chairperson, Bakel Walden, has expressed his views following the conclusion of the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, in Malmö.

Bakel started by reflecting on this year’s Contest:

“That was my first year as chairman, so I only have a limited comparison period. But many others around me who have been there for a long time have spoken of a historically difficult ESC. And I like to believe them after the last few weeks and days.

It was an incredibly intensive time, with many highlights in the preparation, but also with a lot of pressure for everyone involved in the production. Above all, the joy and gratitude that the three shows at this year’s ESC have thrilled millions of people now predominate.”

Bakel discussed the disqualification of the Dutch entry, while Israel was able to participate:

“And you can believe me that we would have loved to have avoided an additional crisis. The committees in which elected ESC participants sit discussed the process intensively. The decision was correct: there was unacceptable behaviour towards a production employee. If there are over 1,000 people in a production who want to work safely, then not only must there be clear rules of conduct, but above all they must also be implemented consistently. And that’s what the responsible members of the EBU did.

We carefully examined the Israeli application, including the text, and in the end everything conformed to the rules. I understand this topic is highly debated. The important thing is that this does not turn into hatred and verbal attacks. Many participants were worried about what was happening on social media and on site.

We cannot simply accept verbal hatred and incitement. And just as important: The ESC is not the stage to solve all the world’s problems. We also have to set clear boundaries here. We will enter into a constructive dialogue with the participating countries, but also with artists. So we brought some homework with us from Malmö.”

Finally, Bakel discussed the Non-Binary flag situation, as well as looking forward to 2025:

“The non-binary flag is permitted at the ESC, along with the flags of the participating countries and the rainbow flag. This was partly implemented incorrectly on site, which we regret. Nemo did everything right. Basically, when analysing, we don’t just want to look at the beautiful experiences from Malmö. I also believe we need “a little bit of fixing”.

There are many topics that are already being discussed. Our supervisory board will meet again in a few weeks. The ESC 2025 has already begun behind the scenes. Preparations for the so-called “City Bid” are underway. The city is expected to be announced in the summer. The ESC is a huge opportunity for the venue, so a fair and well-prepared approach is needed.”

Let us know what you think about the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest – either in the comments below or on our FACEBOOK, TWITTER, YOUTUBE, INSTAGRAM and TIKTOK pages.

Author: Richard Taylor

Source: Eurovoix