Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
France 24
France 24
Politics
NEWS WIRES

Eurovision Song Contest kicks off in Sweden amid Gaza protests

Hosts Malin Akerman and Petra Mede attend the first rehearsal of the first semi-final of the 68th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) at Malmo Arena in Malmo, Sweden on May 06, 2024. © Jessica Gow, via Reuters

Competition in the 68th Eurovision Song Contest kicked off Tuesday in Sweden, with the war in Gaza casting a shadow over the sequin-spangled pop extravaganza.

Performers representing countries across Europe and beyond took the stage in the first of two semifinals in the Swedish city of Malmo. It and a second semifinal on Thursday will winnow a field of 37 nations to 26 who will compete in Saturday’s final against a backdrop of both parties and protests.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.