BRUSSELS (AP) — The aftermath of the Eurovision song contest has been marked by controversy, with the European Union criticizing organizers for banning its flag from the final event.
EU Commission Vice President Margaritis Schinas wrote a strongly worded letter to the Swiss-based European Broadcast Union, condemning the ban as "incoherent" and damaging to a symbol that unites all Europeans.
The European Commission announced plans to discuss the ban with organizers, noting that while the EU did not compete as a single entity, many of its member states did, and the EU flag is often seen as a unifying symbol.
Schinas expressed disappointment that the ban came just ahead of EU parliamentary elections, adding that it has left many viewers questioning the values of the Eurovision Song Contest.
The event was already embroiled in controversy due to protests related to the conflict in Gaza, Israel's participation, and the disqualification of the Dutch contestant.
Swedish police have announced plans to charge Joost Klein for making illegal threats during the event, although the nature of the threats has not been disclosed.
The decision to allow only flags representing participating countries and the rainbow flag, a symbol for LGBTQ+ communities, also sparked debate.
Despite these issues, Swiss singer Nemo emerged victorious with "The Code," a song celebrating their journey toward embracing a non-gender identity.