Eurovision: The Prime Minister’s Office accuses those calling for Israel’s exclusion of ideological bias

It is no surprise that the government disagrees with excluding Israel from Eurovision. They have no intention of withdrawing ERT from the competition.

The Prime Minister’s Office even accuses those calling for Greece’s withdrawal from Eurovision of ideological bias, arguing that it is a musical contest.

Specifically, in response to a request from SYRIZA MPs for ERT to follow the example of public broadcasters from the Netherlands, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia and boycott the contest, government spokesperson Pavlos Marinakis sarcastically commented, “If there were a competition for ideological opposition, we would score 12 points from all countries, especially from the left.”

He also stated, “Fortunately, Eurovision is a music competition that unites, where ideologies and political disputes like these do not belong.” Marinakis accused those who protest for Palestine of hypocrisy, suggesting that “they only hit the streets after weighing the value of victims.” He added, “Have you ever heard them protest for the attack on Ukraine or make a similar request for a music competition or anything else? These are all hypocritical acts for show.”

However, he hastened to add, “Our stance is clear on civilians and the ceasefire,” while also noting, “We do not forget the hostages and victims from Israel.”

He questioned how one should characterize someone who opposes a government and transfers this opposition to an entire nation. Essentially, he suggested that those calling for Israel’s exclusion from Eurovision are being racist toward the Israeli people. He referenced the official statement from ERT, which clarified that during the EBU assembly, it was decided that there is no reason to consider Israel’s exclusion. The statement also emphasized, “If certain national public organizations choose not to respect this decision, that is their matter.”

Πηγή: www.news247.gr