Nicosia, Cyprus. Dozens of public figures called on state broadcaster CyBC to withdraw Cyprus’ entry for the Eurovision song contest, saying the song and its video clip present an “unacceptable image” of the country abroad.
Open letter cites concerns over image and responsibility
In an open letter to the president and board of directors of CyBC, 40 signatories said they viewed the song and video clip “with shock” and described the participation as “insulting to Cypriot history, traditions and aesthetic”.
“This is not a matter of artistic choice,” the letter said. “It is a matter of principles and public responsibility.”
Criticism focused on road safety scenes in video clip
The letter singled out the video clip for JALLA, performed by Antigoni, saying it appeared to legitimise “very dangerous practices of road traffic violations”.
It cited scenes of young boys performing wheelies on mopeds on public roads, calling the content “inappropriate” for a publicly funded production representing Cyprus internationally.
Three demands and calls for disclosure
The signatories demanded that CyBC withdraw the video clip, withdraw the song from the Eurovision competition, and provide full transparency to taxpayers regarding the cost of the production and Cyprus’ participation.
They also requested disclosure of the members of the selection committee and clarification on who proposed and approved the video’s concept and production.
Signatories and CyBC response
Signatories included former foreign minister Erato Kozakou-Marcoullis, former MEP Takis Hadjigeogiou, University of Cyprus professors Giorgos Kasinis, Maria Iakovou and Socrates Stratis, publisher Nikos Pattichis and architect Minos Polykarpos, alongside academics, artists, architects, psychologists and cultural professionals.
In a written response, CyBC general director Thanasis Tsokos rejected the criticism and defended the broadcaster’s decision to participate with JALLA, saying the corporation did not share comparisons made by critics between Eurovision and cultural institutions such as major museums.
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