Italian Union Urges Eurovision 2026 Boycott Amid Crisis
A growing call for Italy to withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 is gaining momentum. This movement is spearheaded by the USB – RAI coordination, a youth union established only two years ago. Currently, it has approximately 50 members from Italy’s state broadcaster.
Background of the Petition
The petition urges Italy to join Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands. These countries have declared their intentions not to participate in the 70th Eurovision edition scheduled for May 2026 in Vienna. Their decision follows the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) confirmation of Israel’s involvement.
Reasons for the Boycott
- The petition emphasizes ethical and empathetic stances on international issues.
- It aims to send a strong message about human dignity and justice.
- The union believes that Italy can set an example for moral leadership globally.
Goals of the Movement
Claudio Ciccone, a representative of USB – RAI, stated their intention to expand beyond the current 3,000 signatures collected. They aim to involve notable figures to amplify the campaign’s reach. Italy’s representative for Eurovision will be unveiled during the upcoming Sanremo Festival.
Recently, Iceland has also opted out of the contest, while Portugal’s participation remains uncertain. Several artists have refused to attend the event in protest against Israel’s participation.
RAI’s Position on Eurovision
On December 5, RAI reaffirmed Italy’s participation in Eurovision, highlighting its historical commitment as a founding member. Italy is part of the “Big Five,” which includes France, Germany, Spain, and the United Kingdom. RAI’s support reflects its dedication to promoting music and culture on an international scale.
Pressure on RAI’s Board
As Ciccone pointed out, the call for withdrawal intensified after protests against Israel’s presence. The union plans to pressure RAI’s directors to reconsider Italy’s involvement. Ciccone suggested using demonstrations and meetings to convey their demands effectively.
Concerns About Double Standards
The issue of exclusion based on political actions has been contentious. For instance, the EBU banned Russia after its invasion of Ukraine and barred Belarus due to political controversies. Ciccone raised concerns that if such standards exist, they should be consistently applied to all nations, including Israel.
The Broader Implications
Ciccone expressed concern over how participation in Eurovision impacts Italy’s global image. Although the event is primarily musical, it serves as a significant platform for international representation. The union believes that Italian public sentiment is against current injustices, particularly regarding the situation in Palestine.
Financial Considerations
Ciccone acknowledged that withdrawing from Eurovision could have financial repercussions for RAI. The contest offers wide exposure, benefiting record labels and artists alike, making it a complex decision for the broadcaster.
