Malmö, Sweden: Swiss singer Nemo made headlines after criticizing Eurovision organizers moments following their victory at the annual song contest. Nemo’s performance of “The Code” captivated both the jury and the audience during the 2024 Eurovision ceremony held in Malmo, Sweden.
This year’s Eurovision contest has been marked by controversy, with Israel’s involvement leading to pro-Palestine demonstrations outside the venue and the disqualification of Netherlands act Joost Klein. Nemo, the first-ever non-binary winner of Eurovision, expressed disappointment during a press conference after winning about the ban on non-binary flags in the arena.
Addressing reporters, Nemo shared their concerns about the lack of inclusivity and double standards within the Eurovision competition. The Swiss artist emphasized the importance of compassion and empathy, dedicating their win to individuals who strive to be themselves and those who seek to be heard and understood.
Despite their victory, Nemo recounted the intense and sometimes challenging experience during the contest, highlighting the mix of emotions encountered throughout the competition. The singer urged for a more compassionate and understanding approach within the Eurovision community.
Switzerland clinched the Eurovision title with an impressive 591 points, followed closely by Croatia with 547 points. The top five also included Ukraine, France, and Israel, with the UK’s public voting giving Eden Golan a full 12 points. In contrast, the UK’s entry, Olly Alexander, finished 18th out of 25 contestants, receiving minimal points for his song “Dizzy.”
As Nemo’s iconic win continues to resonate within the Eurovision community, the competition faces renewed discussions about inclusivity, unity, and the need for a more empathetic approach toward all participants. The singer’s message of authenticity and understanding sets a powerful tone for future Eurovision events.