The Netherlands has been disqualified from this year’s Eurovision Song Contest due to an ongoing police investigation into allegations against Dutch singer Joost Klein.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said Swedish police have investigated a complaint about Mr Klein made by a female member of the production crew after Thursday’s semi-final.
“While the legal process takes its course, it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the Contest,” it said.
“We would like to make it clear that, contrary to some media reports and social media speculation, this incident did not involve any other performer or delegation member.
“We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards inappropriate behaviour at our event and are committed to providing a safe and secure working environment for all staff at the Contest.
“In light of this, Joost Klein’s behaviour towards a team member is deemed in breach of Contest rules.”
There had been speculation the investigation was in connection with rising tension between Dutch and Israeli delegates at Eurovision this week.
During a press conference yesterday, Israeli entrant Eden Golan was asked if she was concerned her presence affected the safety of other participants.
When the conference chair told her she did not need to answer the question, Mr Klein yelled, "Why not?".
Statement on Dutch participation in the Eurovision Song Contest.https://t.co/EKagHwQKCZ
— Eurovision Song Contest (@Eurovision) May 11, 2024
Dutch media has reported Mr Klein made "unlawful threats" to a member of staff.
Swedish police said they have "taken all essential investigative measures and questioned the suspect, plaintiff and witnesses".
Following the complaint, he was not allowed to take part in yesterday’s Eurovision practice performance.
A video posted on the X social media platform showed a producer announcing that Mr Klein would not be performing, prompting a chorus of boos from members of the audience.
Dutch broadcaster and EBU member said it was “shocked” and found the disqualification was “disproportionate”.
We have taken note of the disqualification by the EBU. @AVROTROS finds the disqualification disproportionate and is shocked by the decision. We deeply regret this and will come back to this later. #eurovision2024 #europapa #joostklein pic.twitter.com/0BF5M4KBZe
— Songfestival (@songfestival) May 11, 2024
“We deeply regret this and will come back to it later,” it said.
Mr Klein was due to perform fifth this evening with his song ‘Europapa’.
The Grand Final of the 68th Eurovision Song Contest will now proceed with 25 participating songs.
