The Norwegian Head of Delegation, Stig Karlsen, has confirmed that discussions have occurred between NRK and the EBU regarding Eurovision 2024.
Speaking to Norwegian media, Stig Karlsen has confirmed that discussions have taken place between NRK and the European Broadcasting Union. The confirmation comes after the EBU publicly confirmed that an independent review of the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 is underway. Mr Karlsen confirmed in a statement to TV2 that:
“At the invitation of the EBU, we have delivered an evaluation of how we experienced ESC 2024. We await feedback, and hope to know a little more before the month of July”
The Head of Delegation added that NRK has every intention to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, but that changes need to be made to the contest. His comments to Norwegian media say:
“First of all, it is important to say that the EBU has done fantastic work for a number of years to bring Europe and the world together with Eurovision. NRK still wants to be part of this community and its good values. That is what we work for.
Having said that, we cannot enter a new year with the same high level of conflict, noise and polarization. And most important of all. We have to think about the safety of everyone involved.
A number of broadcasters have expressed that they are upset after this year’s Eurovision was characterized by division and noise, a lack of communication and crisis management. There are many people who have a lot to report back to the EBU after this year’s Eurovision, but most of it happens in closed forums.
NRK wants openness and a transparent process, but we understand that the EBU needs time and calm to first carry out a good internal investigation. We are currently contributing constructively to this process.”
Norway was represented by Gåte at the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 with “Ulveham”. They finished last in the Grand Final in Sweden, scoring 16 points, its highest points received were 6 points from the Albanian jury.
Image source: Corinne Cumming / EBU | Source: TV2
Norway debuted in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1960 and have won the contest three times – in 1985, 1995 and 2009. The country has the dubious record of finishing last the most times, twelve in total, and have received nul points four times. Norway last won the contest in 2009 when Alexander Rybak broke all records with his song “Fairytale”. He scored 387 points in the final, receiving 16 sets of 12 points and scoring points from every country.