Case Dropped Against Eurovision Entrant

Swedish prosecutors announced on Monday the closure of an investigation into Joost Klein, the Dutch contestant in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. The inquiry stemmed from an altercation between Klein and a camerawoman shortly before the event's final in May. Prosecutor Fredrik Jonsson stated that there was insufficient evidence to prove that Klein's actions were threatening or intended to instill fear. The incident occurred just hours before the final, leading to Klein's removal from the competition. Although Klein made a gesture towards the camerawoman and touched her camera, Jonsson noted that the situation unfolded quickly and was perceived differently by various witnesses. The prosecutor emphasized that the evidence did not support claims of serious intimidation. In the lead-up to the contest, pro-Palestinian demonstrations took place in Malmo, Sweden, where the event was hosted. Some Eurovision participants expressed their support for the pro-Palestinian cause on social media. Klein, a prominent figure in Dutch pop music known for his upbeat and whimsical songs, missed a rehearsal for his performance of "Europapa" the day before the final, raising concerns among organizers. Following the incident, the European Broadcasting Union initiated an investigation, which prompted Swedish police involvement. Ultimately, the decision was made that Klein should not participate in the final while the legal proceedings were ongoing, leading to his disqualification from the event.