Nemo, the 26-year-old Swiss singer and first non-binary Eurovision winner, has announced they are returning their 2024 Eurovision trophy in protest against Israel’s continued participation in the contest.

Reason for Protest

Nemo said Israel’s inclusion in Eurovision conflicts with the competition’s stated values of unity, inclusion, and dignity. They cited a UN report concluding genocide in Gaza as a key factor in their decision. Nemo stressed that their protest is about the political context, not individual artists:

“If the values we celebrate on stage aren’t lived off stage then even the most beautiful songs become meaningless.”

Wider Reaction

• Five countries — Iceland, Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands — have announced boycotts of Eurovision 2026 in protest of Israel’s participation.
• Eurovision director Martin Green said the organization is saddened by Nemo’s decision but respects their views.
• Israel welcomed the ruling to allow them to compete, calling it a gesture of solidarity and cooperation.

Background

• Nemo’s winning song, The Code, celebrated their journey as a non-binary artist.
• After their victory, they highlighted mental health challenges due to the Israel controversy, prompting Eurovision to introduce new protective measures for artists.
• The 2025 contest faced a voting controversy and allegations of political influence, which led the EBU to tighten rules.

Humanitarian Context

The war in Gaza began on 7 October 2023, with attacks from Hamas on Israel and subsequent Israeli military operations. According to Hamas-run authorities, over 70,370 people have died in Gaza since the conflict began, while 251 Israelis were taken hostage.

Next year’s Eurovision will take place in Vienna, marking the 70th anniversary of the contest. Nemo has emphasized that their decision is about holding the contest accountable to its values rather than punishing individual performers.