Ireland's Eurovision entry Bambi Thug has joined a number of fellow acts to issue a joint statement rejecting calls for a boycott of this year's song contest.
It comes after more than 450 British artists, individuals and organisations said they are seeking a boycott of the event in solidarity with Palestine.
British Eurovision hopeful Olly Alexander said in the statement alongside Bambie Thug that "We firmly believe in the unifying power of music, we feel that it is our duty to create and uphold this space, with a strong hope that it will inspire greater compassion and empathy".
Other singers including Norway’s Gåte, Portugal’s Iolanda, San Marino’s Megara, Switzerland’s Nemo, Denmark’s SABA, Lithuania’s Silvester Belt and Finland’s Windows95Man have signed the letter outlining their response.
The statement in full says: " We want to begin by acknowledging the privilege of taking part in the Eurovision. In light of the current situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and particularly in Gaza, and in Israel, we do not feel comfortable being silent.
— olly alexander (@alexander_olly) March 29, 2024
It continues: "In light of the current situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, and particularly in Gaza, and in Israel, we do not feel comfortable being silent.
"It is important to us to stand in solidarity with the oppressed and communicate our heartfelt wish for peace, an immediate and lasting ceasefire, and the safe return of all hostages. We stand united against all forms of hate, including antisemitism and islamophobia."
"We firmly believe in the unifying power of music, enabling people to transcend differences and foster meaningful conversations and connections," it continues.
"We feel that it is our duty to create and uphold this space, with a strong hope that it will inspire greater compassion and empathy."
Elsewhere, the running order for the Eurovision semi-final in Malmo, Sweden has been released with Ireland performing just before Olly Alexander and Years and Years.
The Doomsday Blue singer will be the fourth act to perform on 7 May.
