Climate activist Greta Thunberg participated in a pro-Palestine protest in Malmo, Sweden, coinciding with the Eurovision Song Contest. The protest, which took place outside the venue, centered on opposition to the participation of Israeli singer Eden Golan. Thunberg, wearing a keffiyeh scarf—a symbol of support for Palestine—joined demonstrators who raised signs depicting civilians from Gaza and voiced chants of “free Palestine.”

During Golan’s rehearsals for her performance, segments of the crowd booed and chanted objections, focusing particularly on her song “Hurricane,” which some protesters labeled as propaganda justifying Israel’s actions in Gaza. Rory Flynn, representing the Eurovision Irish fan club, was vocal in criticizing the song and Israel’s participation, highlighting an intent to make their disapproval known both inside and outside the arena.

The demonstrations also saw participation from other Irish fans and a variety of international demonstrators, some opting to express their dissent without boycotting the event entirely. A counter-demonstration by pro-Israeli activists took place as well, showing support for Golan.

The protest not only targeted the Eurovision performance but also broader political issues, with a banner explicitly accusing Israel of genocide—an allegation Israel strongly denies. The event underscored the ongoing complex dialogue surrounding cultural events and their intersection with global political conflicts.