The Netherlands returns to Eurovision 2025: Joost Klein in discussion?

Eurovision 2024 was marked by a scandal involving Joost Klein, representing the Netherlands. Given the bookmakers' bets, his performance and his song "Europapa" were supposed to propel the Netherlands to a top 3 finish in the final, but the adventure took an unexpected and unprecedented turn after the semi-final.

The incident backstage

The incident took place backstage at the Malmö Arena. On 9 May 2024, after the second semi-final, Joost Klein was at the centre of a backstage incident that upset his chances. A Swedish camerawoman allegedly filmed Joost without his consent, leading to an aggressive reaction from him. On the day of the final, 11 May 2024, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) decided to disqualify Joost Klein from the competition. This exclusion sent shockwaves through the fans and sparked heated debate about the proportionality of the sanction. From the outset, the Dutch delegation team felt that his disqualification was disproportionate. The altercation also triggered an official investigation by the Swedish police.

Investigation closed and charges dropped

On 12 August 2024, the Swedish police officially closed the investigation into Joost Klein. After months of testimony, video analysis and interviews, the police concluded that there was insufficient evidence to prosecute Klein. This decision came as a huge relief to Joost Klein and those around him, who had always maintained that the incident had been exaggerated. The end of the investigation also represented a validation of his version of events. Klein publicly thanked his fans for their unwavering support and expressed his desire to put this painful episode behind him.

Despite the closure of the investigation, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) stood firm and reaffirmed its zero tolerance policy towards any inappropriate behaviour, stressing that they must protect the integrity and reputation of Eurovision. The EBU's decision has had far-reaching repercussions. Many fans and critics felt that Klein's exclusion was disproportionate and called for a review of Eurovision rules to avoid such cases in the future. In response to this pressure, the EBU promised to review their procedures and make the necessary adjustments.

The Netherlands, represented by AVROTROS, threatened to withdraw from Eurovision 2025 if significant changes were not made. This ultimatum prompted the EBU to enter into discussions to reform the organisation of the event.

Discussions and concrete reforms

In recent months, intensive discussions have taken place between representatives of public broadcaster Avrotros (which has threatened not to take part in Eurovision 2025) and the EBU, to reassess their rules and procedures. Although not all tensions have been completely resolved, the Netherlands now has a solid basis for sending an artist to the competition next year. The EBU returned in mid-summer with four actions:

• Restricting access backstage. The EBU has decided to restrict access backstage to protect the privacy of artists and staff. This creates a more secure and less intrusive space for participants.

• Setting up a crisis management team. A crisis management team has been set up to respond quickly and effectively to any unforeseen or problematic situations. This team is responsible for maintaining order and ensuring the safety of all participants.

• Strengthening support for artists. The EBU has also stepped up support for artists to better prepare them for the media pressure and demands of the event. A wellness producer could be appointed to support the candidates and help them deal with the stress.

• New role of Competition Director. A new post of Competition Director (Martin Green) has been created to oversee these changes and ensure better coordination between the various stakeholders. This position will report to Jean Philip De Tender and Executive Supervisor Martin Österdahl.

These reforms aim to preserve the non-political nature of the event and ensure a safer and more respectful environment for all participants. The EBU is committed to ensuring that Eurovision continues to grow and prosper.

Epilogue

Recent developments have added a further dose of suspense to an already emotional affair. On 21 October 2024, Dutch media reported that the meeting between AVROTROS and the EBU had been successful, easing tensions and apparently paving the way for a smooth Dutch participation in the 2025 competition. Joost Klein was still being considered to represent the country.

However, the next day AVROTROS tempered the prevailing enthusiasm by indicating that the final decision had not yet been taken. This turn of events leaves fans in a state of doubt. It remains to be seen how this soap opera will conclude, but one thing is certain: interest in the Netherlands' participation in Eurovision 2025 is as lively as ever. Whether Joost Klein makes a comeback or a new artist is announced, the suspense remains and promises to capture the attention of music fans across Europe and beyond.

Stay tuned for the outcome!

Updated on 23 October!

In an unexpected turn of events, Joost Klein officially announced on Wednesday 23 October 2024 that he would not be taking part in Eurovision 2025, despite speculation and ongoing discussions with AVROTROS.

In an open letter, he explained that he needed more time to recover from the difficult year he had just been through. Although his dream had always been to return to the Eurovision stage, he realised that goal had already been achieved with Europapaa song that has touched and united many people. He also mentioned his pride in seeing fans from all over the world learning Dutch, a symbol of the unifying power of his music. Klein, while distancing himself from the media 'system' and the industry, reaffirmed his desire to follow a more personal and authentic path, and invited his fans to join him in this new adventure.

Despite this announcement, he is not ruling out future artistic collaborations outside the Eurovision framework, with a European and American tour for his new album already sold out.