Cyprus’ Entry in Eurovision Song Contest Sparks Controversy

Cyprus’s 2021 Eurovision song slated to be sung on the program this May sparked controversy among ultra-conservative Christian groups on the island.

Cyprus will be represented by singer Elena Tsagkrinou, who will sing a song titled ”El Diablo,” which is Spanish for ”The Devil.”

Tsagkrinou, a 26-year old singer from Greece, now features among the top entries for 2021, as her song has been received exceptionally well by European audiences and Eurovision fans.

The Controversy in Cyprus

However, an ultra-conservative group of Theologists in Cyprus has created an online petition to withdraw the song.

The petition titled ‘“Cancellation of El Diablo song participation in Eurovision” asks Cyprus’ Broadcasting Corporation RIK (CyBC) to cancel the country’s entry as ”The participation of Cyprus in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song EL DIABLO is scandalous for us Christians.”

Many social media users have perceived this Christian group’s reaction as ”ludicrous” and ”funny,” however, 4,000 people have signed the petition.

There are media reports from Cyprus even suggesting that people have been sending threatening messages and calls to CyBC to stop the song from representing their country.

The Response of Cyprus’ CyBC

CyBC had to issue an official statement recently to respond to those who demand the cancellation of the country’s entry.

”The song which will represent Cyprus to the 65th Eurovision Song Contest tells the tale of this girl that has found herself entangled in a relationship with someone as bad as ‘El Diablo,’” CyBC notes.

”It regards the eternal struggle between good and evil. Through this problematic relationship with signs of Stockholm syndrome and despite the paranoia she is experiencing, she is seeking help towards freedom,” the announcement of the Cypriot Broadcaster reads.

”In the end, as they say, the truth always shines. Especially these days, we hope the song and its proper interpretation will inspire not only women but also everyone who faces similar situations,” CyBC concluded.

The Eurovision Song Contest

The Eurovision Song Contest is a European song competition organized annually by the European Broadcasting Union, and it features participants representing European countries, Australia, and Israel.

It is one of the world’s most-watched TV programs, with almost 200 million Europeans watching the semi-finals and the grand final every May.

The competition was canceled due to the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020. However, it is scheduled between May 18 and May 22 this year in the Netherlands.

Young Greek-Dutch singer Stefania will represent Greece.

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