EUROVISION is known as an international songwriting competition that is arguably one of the world’s largest musical events.
Following Russia’s decision to declare war on Ukraine, many are wondering if they will be able to participate.
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Will Russia participate in Eurovision 2022?
On February 25, 2022, the European Broadcasting Union released a statement about Russia’s participation in this year’s Eurovision event, revealing that the country has been banned.
“The EBU has announced that no Russian act will participate in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest,” the statement read.
“The Executive Board of the EBU made the decision following a recommendation earlier today by the Eurovision Song Contest’s governing body, the Reference Group, based on the rules of the event and the values of the EBU.
“The Reference Group recommendation was also supported by the EBU’s Television Committee,” the statement added.
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“The decision reflects concern that, in light of the unprecedented crisis in Ukraine, the inclusion of a Russian entry in this year’s Contest would bring the competition into disrepute.
“…We remain dedicated to protecting the values of a cultural competition which promotes international exchange and understanding, brings audiences together, celebrates diversity through music and unites Europe on one stage,” the statement concluded.
Eurovision 2022 will be held from May 10-14 in Turin, Italy.
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Who won the 2021 Eurovision contest?
2021 marked the contest’s 65th edition and saw a number of talented performers from around the world.
The top three countries included France, Switzerland, and Italy.
Måneskin was able to secure the win for Italy with their performance of Zitti e buoni, while France finished in second and Switzerland third.
Following their win, Måneskin’s popularity has grown substantially, especially in the United States where their songs are often played on TikTok.
They also made their Saturday Night Live debut in January 2022 where they performed the hit songs Beggin and I Wanna Be Your Slave.
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Why did Russia declare war on Ukraine?
During the fall of the Soviet Union, Russia had given up land which is now a part of Ukraine.
In February 2022, Russia’s President Vladimir Putin declared that the neighboring nation “belongs to Russia” launching an invasion in order to seize the lost territory.
The invasion came just months after Putin had stated that he had no plans on attacking Ukraine.
On February 22, 2022, a UK minister confirmed that the “invasion of Ukraine had begun” as Putin ordered Russian troops into Ukraine on a “peacekeeping mission.”
Since the start of the invasion a number of countries, including the United States and the UK have issued sanctions against Russia.
The invasion has already taken the lives of many and many others fear for their safety.
