The Netherlands has confirmed its participation in the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest in Switzerland, following a tumultuous turn of events involving the exclusion of a prominent artist from this year's competition. The flamboyant singer and rapper, Joost Klein, who was removed from the 2024 contest due to a backstage incident, has decided not to represent the Dutch in the next edition.
The Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS revealed that it has reached an agreement with the European Broadcasting Union regarding new regulations aimed at preventing similar disruptions in the future. The controversy surrounding Klein unfolded during the semi-final in Malmo, where he was accused of making threats by a female member of the production crew. Despite the lack of legal action taken by Swedish authorities, Klein was barred from participating in the final competition, despite being a frontrunner for victory.
In a statement, Klein expressed his reluctance to return to the competition, citing the need for more time to recover from the ordeal. However, Dutch Eurovision enthusiasts can rejoice as the Netherlands will indeed be part of the 2025 event in Basel.
AVROTROS emphasized that structural changes, including reduced backstage filming, the appointment of a safety manager, and the provision of a safe space for performers, will be implemented at the upcoming festival. The decision to rejoin the Eurovision Song Contest comes after extensive deliberations and consultations between the broadcaster and the EBU.
Following Klein's disqualification, Switzerland's contestant Nemo emerged victorious in the 2024 edition, securing the highest number of points from both national juries and global viewers. AVROTROS is now on the lookout for a new Dutch representative, with interested artists having until November 22 to submit their applications.
