Eurovision winner Nemo returns trophy in protest over Israel’s inclusion

Swiss singer Nemo, winner of the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest, is returning their trophy to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in protest of Israel's inclusion in the competition. Nemo stated that Israel's participation, amid its ongoing war on Gaza, contradicts Eurovision's values of unity and inclusion. The EBU cleared Israel to participate in the 2026 contest in Austria, leading to boycotts from Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia, and Iceland. Nemo argues that Eurovision is being used to improve the image of a state accused of wrongdoing, despite the EBU's claim that the contest is non-political. The EBU expressed sadness at Nemo's decision but acknowledged their deeply held views.

Nemo, the Swiss singer and first non-binary Eurovision winner, is returning their 2024 trophy to protest Israel's participation in the contest. Nemo cites a conflict between Israel's involvement and Eurovision's values of unity and inclusion, particularly in light of the war in Gaza. They feel the European Broadcasting Union's (EBU) decision to allow Israel to compete contradicts the contest's ideals. Five countries have already announced boycotts of next year's event due to Israel's inclusion. Nemo has placed the trophy in a box to be sent back to the EBU headquarters in Geneva. The EBU has expressed sadness at Nemo's decision and respect for their views.

Nemo, the Swiss winner of the 2024 Eurovision contest, is returning their trophy to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in Geneva to protest Israel's participation in the 2026 event. Nemo cites a conflict between Eurovision's values and allowing Israel to compete amidst its war in Gaza. This decision follows a boycott of the 2026 contest by five countries – Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland – due to the EBU's refusal to exclude Israel. Nemo argues that Eurovision is being used to soften Israel's image, despite the EBU's claim of being non-political. While 34 countries are slated to participate, some have yet to confirm, and the BBC has not clarified the UK's involvement.