Dutch Fans Rally Behind Disqualified Eurovision Singer Joost Klein
On May 15, 2024, Dutch fans displayed strong support for Joost Klein, the Netherlands' disqualified entrant for the Eurovision Song Contest. The event took place in Malmo, Sweden, where the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) barred Klein from performing shortly before the final. Klein was disqualified due to an incident involving "threatening behavior" towards a female production crew member.
Despite the EBU's actions, many in the Netherlands, including Dutch radio stations and fans, have rallied in his defense. Church bells played his song "Europapa," and the hashtag "JusticeforJoost" gained traction on social media. AVROTROS, the broadcaster that selected Klein, called the disqualification "disproportionate," claiming the incident was a violation of filming agreements, resulting in a non-physical threatening gesture from Klein.
While the Swedish police investigate and a prosecutor deliberates on potential charges, Klein has remained silent publicly, aside from a cryptic Instagram post.
The Dutch radio station 3FM organized a bell-ringing campaign, playing Klein's song even though it’s challenging to perform on a carillon due to its fast tempo of 160 beats per minute. Additionally, the EBU has stated that the incident's portrayal on social media doesn't match their information.
Many Dutch fans, including popular TikToker Appie Mussa, believe the punishment was unjust. Amidst pro-Palestinian protests and heightened security for Israel's contestant, Eden Golan, the situation has sparked conspiracy theories regarding Klein’s disqualification.
As the investigation continues, Dutch supporters remain steadfast in their backing of Klein.
— Claire Moses Quintel