Eurovision statecraft

The popular song contest might be the easiest way to understand European politics

Hungary's Freddie reacts after his song 'Pioneer' qualified during the First Semi-Final of the 61st annual Eurovision Song Contest at the Ericsson Globe in Stockholm, Sweden. Maja Suslin / EPA

With economic pressures mounting and political disagreements about refugees reaching fever pitch, Europe is divided. In little over a month, the UK will hold a referendum on leaving the EU with potentially far-reaching consequences. If all of the discussion of Brexits and Grexits has you wondering exactly what is happening in Europe, Eurovision is an easy way to see what is really driving regional politics.

Eurovision will pit some of the continent’s top pop singers against each other on Saturday in Stockholm. Professional juries and television voters from each country will choose this year’s champion and in so doing will reveal the deep allegiances that run through Europe’s core. Witness the voting solidarity between former Soviet states (except Ukraine) and, indeed, between Ireland and the UK.

Given the complexity of regional relations, maybe it is time for a “Arabvision” song contest here. Like Eurovision, we could see who is really friend and foe in the region.