Now it’s official: Russia won’t take part in the Eurovision Song Contest this year. All the speculations have now come to end. The EBU has offered Russia two options either they accept a live satellite transmission or they chose another singer who has not broken the Ukrainian law.

The whole situation has become weird over the last weeks. The Russians knew that there is a travel ban for people who have entered the Crimea. And they have chosen a singer who travel to Crimea. This can be seen as a provocation. There even have been emergency plans to move the entire ESC to Berlin in the meanwhile. There is always an emergency plan for the EBU which would work in such cases. We never had a situation like this. It’s also the first time that a political background has influenced the contest which is about music and friendship. It’s sad to see that this entire situation is being misused. On the other hand it’s great to see that the EBU is strict now and does not allow Russia to take part, even if Ukraine should have been more open for such an occasion.

The Russian broadcaster Channel One did not accept any of the suggestions by the EBU. They do not even intend to broadcast this year’s ESC. This would mean that Russia won’t be able to take part in 2018 as well. Rumours already expect other countries to withdraw as well due to solidarity with the Russian singer. But it would cost a lot, as there would be high fees in case of withdrawals.

Author: Bernd LemmermannEmail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Public relations, Editor, Journalist

About me:
As one of the founders of eurovisionlive.com I am responsible for the interviews with the singers and the editorial content. My passion for the Eurovision Song Contest exists since my early childhood. The exotic music, different cultures and languages have given a lot of inspiration to me. Since my very first ESC in Dublin 1994 I particularly appreciate the get together and friendship of all the nationalities and Riverdance was a thrill!