Alright darlings, Eurovision 2024 has come and gone, but the drama it stirred up in Malmö will be talked about for years to come. Switzerland’s Nemo dazzled us all with “The Code,” marking a historic win as the first non-binary person victory. But let’s dive deeper into the true essence of Eurovision – the scandal, the sparkle, and the unforgettable moments that left us gasping.

This year’s contest in Malmö was nothing short of a rollercoaster. The most talked-about controversy involved Ireland’s Bambie Thug, who accused the Israeli broadcaster Kan of inciting violence against them. This explosive claim sent shockwaves through the Eurovision community and brought up serious questions about the event’s inclusivity and safety. To make matters worse, the banning of the non-binary flag inside the arena ignited a fierce debate about freedom of expression and the EBU’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all identities.

Behind the scenes, tensions simmered when Bambie Thug, Marina Satti and Nemo (among others) clashed with Israel’s delegation, represented by Eden Golan. Allegations flew that Kan had not only targeted Bambie Thug but also harassed other contestants. This multi-layered scandal revealed cracks in the supposedly unifying ethos of Eurovision, pushing the EBU to reassess how it handles conflicts and ensures participant safety. 

As if that weren’t enough, the disqualification of the Netherlands’ Joost Klein added another layer of intrigue to the proceedings. Joost, a fan favorite, was unexpectedly ousted from the competition, leaving fans and pundits alike speculating about the reasons. The EBU’s official stance cited a breach of contest rules, but the lack of transparency only fueled rumors and controversy. Was it a technicality or something more sinister? The mystery remains unsolved, adding a dark edge to the otherwise glittering spectacle.

Despite the drama, the magic of Eurovision shone brightly in Malmö. The technical achievements were nothing short of awe-inspiring. Over 2,000 lighting fixtures, massive LED screens, and flawless audio brought performances to life, captivating an audience of millions. But let’s not ignore the minor technical glitches that marred a few acts – charming, perhaps, but a reminder that perfection in production is essential. The EBU must invest in cutting-edge technology and expert crews to ensure future contests run without a hitch.

In the midst of all this, there’s a golden opportunity for Eurovision to champion sustainability. The environmental impact of such a large-scale event cannot be ignored. The EBU has the chance to lead by example, implementing green practices like reducing waste, using renewable energy, and promoting eco-friendly travel. A sustainable Eurovision would not only reduce its carbon footprint but also set a new standard for global events, keeping the spirit of Eurovision alive and environmentally conscious (Home).

Eurovision is also about breaking down cultural barriers and fostering unity. The EBU can amplify this by encouraging more collaborations between artists from different countries and hosting pre-event cultural exchange programs. Imagine the magic of a Serbian folk singer teaming up with a Finnish techno queen – the possibilities are endless and exhilarating. This would celebrate our differences and promote unity through music, capturing the true essence of Eurovision.

As Eurovision 2024 fades into a glittering memory, it’s crucial to hold the EBU accountable, pushing for inclusivity, progress, and sustainability. The world needs more Eurovision – more outrageous fashion, more camp, more music that makes us jump up and shout. Eurovision isn’t just a song contest; it’s a sparkly reminder that music has the power to unite us all. So, pass the prosecco, darlings. This Eurovision hangover is fierce, but the memories? Those are forever.