Due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the ongoing war, there have been loads of protests all over the world about the current political situation. Of course this did not leave the Eurovision community unbothered either. Many national broadcasters demanded the EBU to disqualify Russia from the Eurovision Song Contest 2022 and some broadcasters, like Finnish YLE  or Estonia’s ERR announced that they would not take part in the contest, if Russia would be allowed to participate!

The EBU has now made the following statement, which was posted on all of the Eurovision Song Contest’s official social media accounts:

The EBU has announced that no Russian act will participate in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. 

The Executive Board of the EBU made the decision following a recommendation earlier today by the Eurovision Song Contest’s governing body, the Reference Group, based on the rules of the event and the values of the EBU. The Reference Group recommendation was also supported by the EBU’s Television Committee.

The decision reflects concern that, in light of the unprecedented crisis in Ukraine, the inclusion of a Russian entry in this year’s Contest would bring the competition into disrepute.

Before making this decision the EBU took time to consult widely among its membership.

The EBU is an apolitical member organization of broadcasters committed to upholding the values of public service.

We remain dedicated to protecting the values of a cultural competition which promotes international exchange and understanding, brings audiences together, celebrates diversity through music and unites Europe on one stage.

This means that Russia will definitely not play a role in the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest 2022 in Turin anymore!

On this occasion, it is important to mention once again that the ESCBubble Team supports Ukraine! To all of our Ukrainian readers, we would like to say that we stand with you, we hope you are safe and that peace will prevail soon.