The final of the Eurovision Song Contest began on Saturday under tight security amid continuing criticism over Israel’s participation.
The contest has faced pressure for a third consecutive year because of Israel’s military actions in the Gaza Strip and elsewhere, with Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia boycotting the event in protest.
A demonstration against Israel’s participation was planned ahead of Saturday’s final, while pro-Palestinian groups held an outdoor concert on Friday under the slogan “No Stage for Genocide”.
Congolese-Austrian artist Patrick Bongola, one of the organisers, said: “Inviting Israel on such a beautiful stage as the Eurovision Song Contest stage is an affront to all the people who believe in humanity, who believe in love and togetherness.”
