Eurovision winner gives back trophy over Israel's participation
Nemo, the non-binary singer who won Eurovision 2024 with their genre-blending song "The Code," is sending their trophy back.
They're protesting Israel's spot in the contest, following UN allegations of genocide against Israel and ongoing political tensions.
Nemo calls out Eurovision's values
On Instagram, Nemo said there's a "clear conflict" between Eurovision's ideals of unity and inclusion and its decision to let Israel compete.
They accused the organizers of softening the image of a state accused of severe wrongdoing while claiming to stay apolitical, adding, "If the values we celebrate on stage aren't lived off stage, then even the most beautiful songs become meaningless."
Part of a bigger boycott
Nemo isn't alone—Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, Iceland, and the Netherlands have already pulled out of next year's contest over this issue.
By returning their trophy with a note urging Eurovision to "live what you claim," Nemo joins a growing wave of countries pushing for more accountability from the event.