Malmö Messages: The Netherlands disqualified

photo: EBU/Corinne Cumming

The Netherlands are disqualified and will not perform at the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest. That is what the EBU just said in this statement:

The Dutch artist Joost Klein will not be competing in the Grand Final of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.

Swedish police have investigated a complaint made by a female member of the production crew after an incident following his performance in Thursday night’s Semi Final. While the legal process takes its course, it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the Contest.

We would like to make it clear that, contrary to some media reports and social media speculation, this incident did not involve any other performer or delegation member.

We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behaviour at our event and are committed to providing a safe and secure working environment for all staff at the Contest. In light of this, Joost Klein’s behaviour towards a team member is deemed in breach of Contest rules.

The Grand Final of the 68th Eurovision Song Contest will now proceed with 25 participating songs.

AVROTROS, the Dutch broadcaster, is not amused and also made a statement:

We have taken note of the disqualification by the EBU. AVROTROS finds the disqualification disproportionate and is shocked by the decision. We deeply regret this and will come to this later.

We of Eurovision Universe agree on the statement of AVROTROS, as a person is not guilty until he is proven guilty. That did not happen yet. However, EBU have decided different.

Martijn

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