The group Gåte, despite not making much of a sensation at first, after their appearance in the semi-final of Melodi Grand Prix 2024, Norway’s national final, is now the big favorite of fans and betting companies to represent the country at Eurovision 2024!
A while ago, the group, in an interview, mentioned that their participation in Eurovision is not certain, in case they win the MGP, since they do not agree with the participation of Israel. Specifically, the band’s singer, Gunnhild Sundli, states:
“The extreme and unbearable situation in Gaza must end as soon as possible. We all agree in the group that Israel’s participation is somewhat problematic with this whole situation. We’ll need some time to discuss it.”
Gåte also specifically mentioned the possibility of their victory in the Norwegian national final:
“If we win on Saturday, it’s something we’ll have to decide. But we’ll need some time to decide what’s best.”
At the same time, the betting’s second favourites, KEiiNO, spoke about Eurovision and Israel:
“We all agree that what is happening in Gaza is terrible. As things stand now, it will be difficult for Israel to participate in the Competition in May.“
Finally, Gunnhild Sundli added:
“We are a band that believes that music is something that unites. War never led to peace. We have to see what other countries have to say. I think there will be a need for dialogue with people higher up. It is not an easy decision. We must believe in peace and dialogue and understanding for each nation. And the most important war, the war against war.”
Despite what is happening in Norway, both the EBU and NRK, the public broadcaster, have long stated that they are not going to boycott Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2024.
The Grand Final of Norway’s national final is scheduled to take place tomorrow, Saturday, February 3, where the country’s representative for Eurovision will be decided.
Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the updates regarding Norway’s participation in Eurovision 2024, in Malmö!
Source: NRK
