Protests during Eurovision: Greta and 5,000 pro-Palestinian protesters took to the streets of Sweden

“Young people are leading the way and showing the world how we should respond.” climate activist Greta Thunberg, who is also taking part in the protest at Stortorget Square, which is about seven kilometers from where the music competition will take place, told the media.

“I am here today because I see hypocrisy and double standards around the world,” said a protester who identified himself as Amar. “We are against what is happening in Gaza now. But I also want people to understand that we are not anti-Jewish,” he added, referring to the war between Israel and the Palestinian radical group Hamas, which is hitting civilians hard in the Gaza Strip.

The situation at the site, where a number of protesters are holding Palestinian flags and chanting calls to boycott Israel, is calm, according to police. There are also a large number of law enforcement officers at the competition hall. Metal barricades and large concrete blocks are placed around the hall. All visitors must undergo a security check and go through a metal detector, only small handbags can be taken inside.

For the Czech Republic Aiko, the Israeli woman is causing a stir

This evening, the Israeli singer Eden Golanová, whose participation was opposed by some activists, will also participate in the competition.

But the organizers did not agree with her exclusion, even if they forced her to rework the original version of her song Hurricane (Hurricane), because they thought it was too politically involved.

The representative of the Czech Republic Aiko (real name Alena Shirmanova) entered the race today with the Pedestal piston.

Eurovision semi-final in Sweden: Aiko represented the Czech Republic (May 9, 2024). | ČTK / AP / Martin Meissner

First semi-final without surprises. The favorite of the Croats

The first Eurovision semi-final ended on Tuesday evening without any major surprises. Favored Croatia advanced, Ukraine will also have a representative in Saturday’s final.

The 28-year-old represents Croatia rock singer Marko Purišič, performing under the pseudonym Baby Lasagna. He caught the eye with the song Rim Tim Tagi Dim, depicting the story of a boy looking for a better future in another country.

Ireland also goes further – also thanks to extravagant costumes and an impressive show resembling the exorcism of the devil. Saturday’s final then in addition to Ukraine, Serbia, Portugal, Slovenia, Lithuania, Finland, Cyprus and Luxembourg will also participate.