Eurovision Song Contest marred by mass protests as fans targeted outside venue

The Eurovision Song Contest has been marred by mass protests as fans were shouted at outside the venue in Sweden.

The competition kicked off tonight in Malmo but pro-Palestinian protesters have called for a boycott due to Israel's Eden Golan being in the contest.

Entrants queuing to go into the Malmo Arena were targeted by demonstrators who shouted "free Palestine" and "shame" at those attending. Several protesters have also been detained and taken away by police.

Golan is set to perform alongside the UK entry Olly Alexander and Ireland's Bambie Thug and 22 other countries.

The compeition has already seen controversey with Netherlands entry Joost Klein, disqualified following a "threating movement" from the singer towards a camerawoman.

The Netherlands' Songfestival page, which is responsible for sending acts to the Eurovision Song Contest, branded the decision as 'disproportionate'.

They disclosed that the disqualification came after an incident where Joost was filmed against his wishes, having "repeatedly indicated" he did not consent to it.

In a statement on its official X page it said: "An incident occurred after last Thursday's performance.

"Against clearly made agreements, Joost was filmed when he had just gotten off stage and had to rush to the greenroom.

"At that moment, Joost repeatedly indicated that he did not want to be filmed.

"This wasn't respected.

"This led to a threatening movement from Joost towards the camera.

"Joost did not touch the camerawoman.

"This incident was reported, followed by an investigation by the EBU and police.

"Yesterday and today we consulted extensively with the EBU and proposed several solutions.

"Nevertheless, the EBU has still decided to disqualify Joost Klein.

"AVROTROS finds the penalty very heavy and disproportionate.

"We stand for good manners - let there be no misunderstanding about that - but in our view, an exclusion order is not proportional to this incident.

"We are very disappointed and upset for the millions of fans who were so excited for tonight.

"What Joost brought to the Netherlands and Europe shouldn't have ended this way."

After whispers of a backstage spat last Friday, Joost was removed from the contest. The European Broadcasting Union later released a statement announcing the artist was under investigation following an unspecified incident.

The announcement stated: "The Dutch artist Joost Klein will not be competing in the Grand Final of this year's Eurovision Song Contest. Swedish police have investigated a complaint made by a female member of the production crew after an incident following his performance in Thursday night's Semi Final."

They further emphasised: "While the legal process takes its course, it would not be appropriate for him to continue in the Contest.

"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. The Grand Final of the 68th Eurovision Song Contest will now proceed with 25 participating songs."

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