The European Broadcasting Union released a statement that the have denied to accept the song ‘Ya Naucha Tebya’ by the group Galasy Zmesta as the entry for Belarus at the Eurovision Song Contest 2021. “The song puts the non-political nature of the Contest in question,” explains the EBU.
“As part of the regular procedure for all songs submitted to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC), the EBU has carefully scrutinized the Belarusian song, Ya Nauchu Tebya (I’ll Teach You) by Galasy ZMesta to ensure it complies with the rules of the competition,” starts the statement of the EBU. “It was concluded that the song puts the non-political nature of the Contest in question. In addition, recent reactions to the proposed entry risk bringing the reputation of the ESC into disrepute.”
Will Belarus be disqualified?
It is unclear whether Belarus will stay in the contest in 2021 or not. It depends whether the broadcaster BTRC takes the required actions. “We’ve written to the broadcaster BTRC. Which is responsible for Belarus’ entry for the Eurovision Song Contest, to inform them that the song, in its present form, is currently not eligible to compete. Furthermore we’ve requested that they take all necessary steps to submit a modified version. Or they can submit a new song, that is compliant with the ESC rules. Failure to do so could result in disqualification from this year’s Contest,” concludes the EBU.
Outrageous when you think the EBU allowed 1944 to remain in the contest despite its political overtones and content.