Bulgaria's Dara Wins Eurovision Amid Gaza Boycott
On Saturday, Bulgaria achieved its first victory in the Eurovision Song Contest, with Dara's dance hit "Bangaranga" taking the top spot. Israel's "Michelle," a love song performed in three languages, finished in second place, buoyed by a significant public vote. The 70th edition of the contest was marred by a boycott from five nations—Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland, and Slovenia—protesting against Israel's military actions in Gaza, which followed the Hamas-led assault on October 7, 2023. Unlike the semi-final on Tuesday, the final saw no significant protests. Israel accused others of conducting a smear campaign against it, highlighting the contest's shift from its typically light-hearted nature due to geopolitical tensions.
Key facts
- Bulgaria won Eurovision for the first time.
- Dara performed 'Bangaranga'.
- Israel finished second with 'Michelle' by Noam Bettan.
- Five countries boycotted over Gaza conflict.
- Boycotting countries: Spain, Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland, Slovenia.
- Contest is in its 70th year.
- No obvious protests during the final.
- Israel alleged a global smear campaign.
Entities
Artists
- Dara
- Noam Bettan
Institutions
- Eurovision Song Contest
Locations
- Bulgaria
- Israel
- Spain
- Netherlands
- Ireland
- Iceland
- Slovenia
- Vienna
- Austria