Today the Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS released an update regarding the disqualification of Joost and the ongoing investigation
AVROTROS states that they have cooperated with the EBU in regards to the investigation of the incident after Joost’s Semi-2 performance that led to his disqualification. The investigation is pending at the Swedish Public Prosecution Service, which means that the AVROTROS cannot share any details on the incident and the handeling of said incident.
However, AVROTROS does state that with the knowledge they had then and now that they still believe the disqualification was unnecessary and disproportionate.
The EBU has requested both The Netherlands and other participating countries to cooperate in an investigation. AVROTROS has agreed to this but feels like there is a more in-depth and independent investigation necessary to adress the ongoing structural problems with the EBU.
AVROTROS states that not only the organization in Malmö and the EBU but also the Reference Group and the rules/procedures and appeal possibilities in regards to complaints should be investigated. They also state that the increased pressure put on artists and delegations during the run-up to and during the ESC should be investigated by an independent research agency.
AVROTROS has also stated that the participation of The Netherlands in the future is still up for discussion. They state: “Until AVROTROS is confident that structural adjustments will be made to the artists and their musical message back in the center, we will keep participation in the Song Contest under consideration”.
