Vienna's Eurovision Moment Clouded by Boycott and Controversy

The Eurovision Song Contest finals in Vienna this year are accompanied by significant controversy over Israel's participation. Public broadcasters in five countries have announced boycotts in protest at Israel's military operation in Gaza.

Organizers have also adjusted the voting rules following criticism last year, when Israel's representative received record public support. The new measures cap individual votes at ten and tighten controls on campaigns that may seek to influence the outcome.

Eurovision nonetheless retains its status as a global pop culture event watched by hundreds of millions of viewers, even after 70 years. Past editions launched the careers of ABBA and Céline Dion.

This year, particular attention is falling on the Finnish act Liekinheitin, Australian singer Delta Goodrem and the Israeli entry "Michelle", which has become emblematic of the broader political controversy surrounding the contest.

(reuters)