Netherlands to Participate in Eurovision Next Year, Joost Klein Likely to Return
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Loading... - Ivan Ivanov
- 21 Oct 2024
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The Netherlands is set to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest next year in Basel, with Joost Klein emerging as a strong candidate for a second chance after his disqualification this year, according to reports from Parool. Sources indicate that the issues between the Dutch delegation and the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) have largely been resolved following several consultations over the past few months.
Klein was disqualified from this year's competition in Malmö, Sweden, after allegedly making a threatening gesture toward a camerawoman following his semi-final performance, which caused her to flinch and resulted in damage to her camera. Prior to the incident, the EBU had already urged Klein to improve his behavior.
A criminal investigation was initiated, but the Swedish prosecutor ultimately dropped the case, citing a lack of conclusive evidence that Klein intended to instill serious fear with his gesture. The camerawoman involved has stated that she will not appeal the decision, effectively closing the investigation.
In light of the prosecutor's decision, Dutch broadcaster Avrotros viewed the disqualification as disproportionate and expressed concerns about the Netherlands' future participation in Eurovision unless reforms were made within the contest's organization. However, discussions have reportedly led to a resolution, and the Netherlands will indeed participate next year.
With the deadline for submitting a definitive version of its entry set for March 1, 2025, Avrotros faces a tight timeline to select a contestant. The preparation process for an artist typically takes at least six months, which may lead the broadcaster to bypass the usual open submissions and audition rounds.
Sources have indicated that Avrotros has already engaged in discussions with Joost Klein about representing the Netherlands again. Parool reports that there is a strong likelihood Klein will return, as the broadcaster aims to give him the opportunity to complete his Eurovision journey. Additionally, other potential artists, such as Davina Michelle, have shown hesitance to participate, further solidifying Klein's position as the frontrunner. Sending Klein back to Eurovision would also reinforce Avrotros's stance that his earlier disqualification was unjustified, as the EBU's regulations do not provide grounds for refusing his participation.
