Belarusian singer Dmitry Koldun, who achieved sixth place at the Eurovision Song Contest in 2007, has observed the growing role politics now plays in the competition. In remarks to Gazeta.ru, he noted it is challenging to discuss not taking part in the 2022 music event representing Russia and Belarus because that topic is not musical in nature. He emphasized that political factors surrounding the contest appear more influential today than during his previous participation.
Koldun explained that he does not actively follow this year’s Eurovision lineup, yet he plans to watch the broadcasts to see how the event unfolds. He commented that going into the contest without heavy preparation often makes the viewing more engaging, as surprises emerge when favorites keep shifting. The singer stressed that absorbing new music and assessing performances is an ongoing part of his profession, regardless of which acts are spotlighted for the final rounds.
He added that participant selections, while important for fans and organizers, do not fundamentally determine the essence of the experience. Koldun expressed hope that one day the competition will return to its original aim of fostering unity and musical exchange among diverse cultures. The Eurovision event in 2022 was scheduled to take place in Turin, Italy, from May 10 to May 14, bringing together a wide array of artists from across Europe and beyond.
Earlier in the year, The Guardian, a major British daily newspaper, highlighted the Ukrainian rap group Kalush Orchestra as a strong favorite for Eurovision 2022, underscoring how public perception and media forecasts shape expectations before the performances begin. This climate of anticipation mirrors the broader conversation about how geopolitics intersects with popular culture and the ways in which audiences engage with a competition that blends entertainment, national pride, and cross-border storytelling. Such dynamics were evident as commentators weighed the potential impact of political contexts on voting patterns and jury choices, while fans looked for authentic artistry that can transcend borders. (Gazeta.ru)