Yes, we know: the amount of drama surrounding this year’s Eurovision Song Contest is getting ridiculous. The EBU fined Ukraine €200,000 after the Russian participation controversy, then they penalised Russia too. Now, another controversy has emerged; the broadcasting license holder Euronews SA are trying to take back the money that they gave to Ukraine to make sure that this year’s Eurovision ran smoothly!
In total, Euronews SA gave Ukraine €15,000,000 so that if there was an emergency, the contest wouldn’t suffer. However, they say that since the money wasn’t needed, they want it back.
How will they get the money back?
Euronews SA contacted The Geneva Department of Compulsory Debt Collection, who have begun procedures to seize the money.
However, Ukraine have hired a Swiss law firm to deal with the case, as they say that they were to receive all the money after the contest. They describe this as an “unfair move” from Euronews SA.
How Ukraine is affected
Clearly, Ukraine is going through a lot right now in the Eurovision world. Being stuck in a legal battle against a broadcasting license holder can be massively detrimental, and Ukraine’s reputation in Eurovision may suffer.
The Ukrainian broadcaster, UA:PBC, have not yet confirmed participation in next year’s Eurovision. If any more controversies involving Ukraine emerge, UA:PBC may decide to withdraw from Eurovision; they could say that it’s more trouble for them than it’s worth!
What do you think of this news? Are Euronews SA right to demand that Ukraine return the money? Does Ukraine deserve the money? Let us know in the comments below!
Comments on Further controversy for Ukraine, as Euronews SA says “We want our money back!”