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Alternative shows counter Eurovision amid larger protest over Israel’s participation
Palestinian and European performers staged counterprograms after five countries boycotted the contest over Israel's participation, while Eurovision drew 166 million viewers last year.
- On Tuesday, Palestinian songwriter Bashar Murad performed Nina Simone's 'I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free' in English and Arabic at a Brussels concert hall, part of a broader protest against this week's Eurovision Song Contest.
- Anger over Israel's military campaign in Gaza and elsewhere sparked the protest movement, with five nations including Spain and Ireland boycotting the competition as outrage has grown across Europe.
- Organizers reported similar alternative events across Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Italy, and Spain. Murad said he hopes the events can spark reflection on the contest's original mission to unite people through song.
- Spanish public television will air an alternative program titled 'La Casa de la Música' on Saturday as a tribute to the broadcaster's 70th anniversary. The Geneva-based European Broadcasting Union declined to expel Israel despite boycott demands.
- Despite the alternative efforts, none boast an audience comparable to Eurovision, which drew 166 million viewers in 2025 and continues to attract enthusiastic fans this year.
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources10
Leaning Left6Leaning Right1Center3Last UpdatedBias Distribution60% Left
Bias Distribution
- 60% of the sources lean Left
60% Left
L 60%
C 30%
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