Eurovision’s Sparkle Dimmed by Boycott in Malta

As the clock struck midnight on Saturday, the streets of Valletta, usually buzzing with late-night revelers, were quieter than usual. The reason? Many Maltese were glued to their screens, not for the local nightlife, but for the Eurovision Song Contest final in Tel Aviv. Yet, the glitz and glamour of the international event were somewhat tarnished this year, as a boycott called by local activists cast a shadow over the spectacle.

Boycott Calls Echo Through The Streets of Valletta

In the lead-up to the contest, activists had been vocal in their calls for a boycott, citing Israel’s treatment of Palestinians. Placards bearing the hashtag #BoycottEurovisionIsrael were a common sight around the capital, with many Maltese expressing their solidarity on social media. The boycott even caught the attention of international media, with outlets like The Guardian and BBC News reporting on the local protest.

Malta’s own entry, Michela Pace, found herself in the eye of the storm. The 18-year-old singer, who won the Malta Eurovision Song Contest earlier this year, was caught in the crossfire. Despite her personal stance against the boycott, she was forced to defend her decision to participate in interviews leading up to the final.

Malta’s Eurovision History: A Love Affair That’s Complicated

Malta’s love for Eurovision runs deep. The Mediterranean island has participated in the contest since 1971, winning it just once, in 1998, with Chiara’s “The One That I Love”. Yet, this year’s boycott was a stark reminder that the island’s relationship with the contest is not without its complications.

In 2017, Malta’s entry, Claudia Faniello, faced criticism for performing in Israel’s HaSharon region, which is close to the Gaza Strip. Despite the controversy, she went on to perform in the contest’s final, finishing in 16th place.

A Boycott Divided: Opinions Among Maltese

Opinions among Maltese were divided. While some supported the boycott, others argued that politics and art should not mix. “I think it’s important to stand up for what we believe in, but I also think that art should be separate from politics,” said Mario, a 35-year-old marketing manager from Msida.

On the other hand, Sarah, a 27-year-old teacher from Birkirkara, supported the boycott. “I think it’s our duty as humans to stand up against injustice, and that’s what the boycott is about,” she said.

In the end, Michela Pace’s performance in the final was a moment of unity for Malta. Despite the boycott, the Maltese flag was waved proudly as she sang her heart out on the Tel Aviv stage. But the boycott served as a reminder that even in the world of music and entertainment, politics is never far away.