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Eurovision 2024 Winner Nemo Returns Trophy in Protest Over Israel's Inclusion

Five broadcasters have already pulled out of the 2026 contest after organizers declined to put Israel's entry to a vote.

Overview

  • In an Instagram video, the Swiss artist said the award no longer belonged on their shelf and framed the move as a matter of conscience.
  • Nemo argued that Eurovision’s stated values of unity, inclusion and dignity clash with allowing Israel to participate after a UN‑mandated inquiry concluded genocide.
  • The singer filmed placing the microphone‑shaped trophy in a box and said it was being sent back to the EBU headquarters in Geneva.
  • National broadcasters in Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia and Iceland have announced they will not participate in Eurovision 2026 in Vienna.
  • The withdrawals followed a decision in early December by a majority of EBU members not to submit Israel’s participation, via broadcaster KAN, to a vote.