AVROTROS, the broadcaster that normally ensures that Dutch people can participate in the Eurovision Song Contest, has not yet decided whether we will participate again next year. Say what?!
AVROTROS first wants to see changes at the Eurovision Song Contest
Apparently AVROTROS is not happy with how the EBU – those are the people who organize the entire Eurovision Song Contest – deals with safety and atmosphere during the festival. They even sent out an official statement. It states the following: “The Eurovision Song Contest was founded with the aim of connecting countries and peoples through music and encouraging brotherhood. This principle should be guiding for the organizers and all participating countries. Until AVROTROS is convinced that there structural changes have been implemented to put the artists and their musical message at the center again, we are considering participation in the Eurovision Song Contest.”
EBU research
The EBU is currently investigating all complaints about safety and atmosphere. But according to AVROTROS that is not enough. They do participate in the research, but they actually believe that a much larger and more in-depth study is needed to really tackle all the problems.
NPO Stands Behind AVROTROS
By the way, the Dutch Public Broadcasting (NPO) fully agrees with AVROTROS. They also believe that the EBU really needs to change things. So maybe we’ll all skip a year until things are better organized there at the Eurovision Song Contest.
Disqualification Eurovision Song Contest
Joost Klein made history this year at the Eurovision Song Contest. He was the first artist ever to be disqualified from the final. Why? Well, after his performance in the second semi-final, where he performed last, he allegedly threatened a camerawoman from the organization. Broadcaster AVROTROS, who was present with Klein in the city of Malmö, found the disqualification of our Dutch pride ‘disproportionate’. The police investigation is still ongoing and it is unclear when the case will be heard. Joost’s lawyer also wants to hear witnesses in the Netherlands, which seems to be slowing things down. However, Joost’s lawyer remains positive about the outcome of the investigation. “I’m sure if the police do a proper investigation, he won’t be prosecuted.”
Air balloon
Joost Klein has not been sitting idle! The artist released a brand new song yesterday called Luchtballon. In this catchy song Joost gives free rein to his feelings about the chaos of the world around us. “Far too many stimuli. One has this, the other has that,” he raps. The lyrics not only seem to describe his own struggles, but could also hint at his recent adventure in Malmö. “I just want to live my life. Give me some time. I’m at a lonely height and you have to realize that,” he continues in his new track.
