European Commission sends letter to EBU requesting explanation on ban of EU flags at Eurovision 2024

The European Union has addressed a letter to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in response to the prohibition of the EU flag at Malmö Arena during the final of the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) 2024.

The letter shared by Politico, signed by European Commission Vice-President Margaritis Schinas, was sent to Delphine Ernotte Cunci (President of the EBU) and Martin Österdahl (Director of Live Events and Executive Supervisor of the ESC). The Greek began by stating:

– For nearly seven decades, the Eurovision Song Contest has embodied the values of diversity and cultural exchange – values shared and championed by the European Union. As European Commission Vice-President responsible for, amongst other things, cultural policy, it was with regret that I learned of the policy enforced by the EBU this year of banning participants from waving the EU flag during the finale of the Eurovision Song Contest. Such actions have cast a shadow over what is meant to be a joyous occasion for peoples accross Europe and the world to come together in celebration”.

In Schinas’ view, the situation undermined a European symbol of unity at a delicate time: “Less than a month before the European elections and in times of geopolitical turbulence, with the EU being targeted by malicious and authoritarian actors, EBU’s decision contributed to discrediting a symbol that brings together all Europeans. This is all the more so when put in contrast to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, where the IOC [International Olympic Committee] has allowed for the displaay of EU flags in all venues and award ceremonies”.

The Vice-President questioned the EBU’s inconsistency and demanded clarification: “The incoherence in the EBU’s stance has left myself and many millions of your viewers wondering for what and for whom the Eurovision Song Contest stands. I would  request that you explain the rationale behind this decision and attribute responsability where it is due. I for one would expect to see the values of peace, tolerance and inclusiveness afforded greater deference in the future. I look forward to receiving your response”.