Sarah Engels: ESC is the wrong stage for political conflicts

For German singer Sarah Engels, the Eurovision Song Contest represents a cherished space for music, passion, and uniting people across borders. In an interview with the German Press Agency (dpa), Engels, who will represent Germany with her song "Fire" at the upcoming ESC in Vienna, emphasized that while acknowledging the world's serious problems is crucial, the ESC is fundamentally the wrong stage for resolving profound political conflicts.

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Auf der Welt passieren aktuell schlimme Dinge. Davor darf man auf keinen Fall die Augen verschließen

"It would simply be sad if this unifying power were lost because we try to solve problems there that actually belong elsewhere," Engels stated, advocating for a separation between the music competition and political disputes. She believes it's important to address global issues without diminishing their significance, but insists that the ESC's core purpose – fostering emotional connections through music – should be protected.

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Aber ich bin fest davon überzeugt, dass der Eurovision Song Contest die falsche Bühne ist, um tiefe politische Konflikte auszutragen.

Engels' remarks come at a time when the Eurovision Song Contest is embroiled in political controversy. Several countries have announced boycotts in response to Israel's military operations in the Gaza Strip, sparking intense debate about the event's role in international politics. Germany's participation, with Engels as its representative, highlights the tension between the ESC's traditional role as a cultural bridge and the current geopolitical climate.

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Für mich ist das ein Ort für Musik, für Leidenschaft und dafür, Menschen emotional miteinander zu verbinden - egal, woher sie kommen