Writer’s response: Eurovision or Tunnel Vision?

What a whirlwind Eurovision was this year!

From the uncertainty of, “will Israel be allowed to participate at all”, to death threats against our contestant; and then finally making it to the final where Yuval Raphael was fantastic!

She is a strong, resilient fighter who not only stood against hate and threats to her life but she stood for herself, for her country and for the 58 hostages still held in Gaza. Her road to the Eurovision stage was anything but smooth. She not only made it – she flourished.

Her performance was not only musically powerful, but emotion-filled and clearly resonated with people all around the world. This was strongly reflected by the popular vote. Here in the UK, Israel had the highest popular vote, where we awarded her 12 points. The Jury Vote however, strongly contradicted the public vote, leading some to believe there was discrimination in its casting. Nonetheless, Yuval left Eurovision second only to Austria and having touched hearts around the world.

What we at home missed, however, was the atmosphere in the arena. What we did not hear was the constant booing and jeering Yuval faced throughout her performances. People were removed from the audience as they broke Eurovision’s policies, as well as trying to storm the stage during her performance in the finals. There were also protests throughout Basel, not protesting any crime, rather a woman singing her heart out on stage – a stage she won the chance at fair and square.

The only point that these protests have highlighted for me is the strength and perseverance seen in our winner, Yuval Raphael. She is a role model for all, standing up against intimidation and hate to represent both herself, and those left unrepresented.

Congratulations Yuval for bringing home the silver medal of second place – you deserve it and more.