Eurovision 2024: A Shifting Atmosphere
Noam Bettan, an Israeli singer, received a warm reception at the opening event of this week’s Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, Austria, on Sunday. However, the atmosphere was markedly different, with pro-Hamas demonstrators wearing keffiyehs and expressing hostility toward Israeli contestants, diverging from the more favorable receptions of recent years.
The Eurovision Song Contest, which includes both European and non-European countries such as Georgia and Australia, showcases original songs performed by artists from participating nations. This year is particularly significant as it marks the 70th anniversary of the competition, originally intended to foster unity in Europe post-World War II.
This year, 35 countries, including Israel, submitted representatives. Israel has been part of Eurovision since 1973 and has won four times, the last being in 2018. Yet, since the Hamas attacks on October 7, 2023, targeting Israeli civilians, there has been a backlash against Israel in the form of boycott campaigns, aimed at excluding it from the competition. Last year’s events in Malmö and this year’s in Basel saw significant anti-Israel protests, and there were reports of other contestants distancing themselves or acting adversarially towards Israeli participants.
The contrasting atmosphere this year in Vienna was evident during the Turquoise Carpet event, a major highlight of Eurovision week where artists showcase their outfits and perform. Bettan and his entourage navigated the crowd, facing some hostility, yet many fans were eager to express support and seek autographs. As he walked the carpet to the familiar tune of “Hava Nagila,” a few onlookers showed disapproval, but it didn’t overshadow the event’s joyful spirit.
Following Bettan’s arrival, he shared a moment with British pop star Boy George, who is in the contest supporting another performer. It’s interesting how times have changed—such exchanges were unthinkable during Eurovision 2024 and 2025, where incidents were marked by hostility. Back then, Eden Golan faced opposition while arriving in Malmö, where protestors created security issues, leading to a tense environment. In 2025, Yuval Rafael, a survivor of the October 7 attacks, contended with threats from demonstrators.
After the recent contests, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) faced mounting pressure regarding Israel’s participation, initially planning to discuss Israel’s status but later canceling meetings amid tensions. Complaints arose about Israel’s methods of promoting its artists, with Israel’s broadcaster KAN being warned against excessive advertisement during semifinals, in contrast to other countries’ promotional efforts that went largely unchecked.
Beyond the tension, this year’s Eurovision has drawn impressive participation, despite the backdrop of boycotts from several countries in protest of Israel’s presence. Bettan will perform “Michelle” in this year’s first semi-final, showcasing a thematic shift as family values and traditional themes emerge in the music after more controversial editions previously.
Despite the challenges, ticket sales for live performances during the week have exceeded expectations. Even amidst a boycott, enthusiasm for the event remains robust.
