Intervision 2024: Russia’s initiative to host a new international music competition in St. Petersburg
Russia has allocated a dedicated budget for organizing the Intervision music competition in 2024, a program described in official communications as the Russian analogue to the Eurovision Song Contest. The funding decision came through an order authorized by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and cited in official reports from St. Petersburg media outlets, including the St. Petersburg Diary. The plan marks a significant step in presenting Russia on an international cultural stage while emphasizing national heritage and global cultural exchange.
The host city for Intervision was confirmed as St. Petersburg, reflecting the city’s storied musical and cultural traditions. This choice aligns with Russia’s broader strategy to showcase its artistic talents within a global context and to foster collaboration among participating nations through a platform dedicated to creative expression.
A total of 600 million rubles has been earmarked to support the event. Funds will flow to the Fund for the Protection and Support of Cultural Heritage and the Development of National and World Culture, underscoring a dual aim: to safeguard Russia’s cultural legacy and to promote contemporary arts on the international stage. Oversight of the appropriate use of these resources rests with the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ensuring that financial allocations align with diplomatic and cultural goals on a global scale.
The concept of Intervision emerged in discussions led by media executives and cultural policymakers who see the competition as a “free platform” for artists that remains distinct from political agendas. Konstantin Ernst, the general manager of Channel One, has publicly advocated for an open-format event that prioritizes artistic integrity over political considerations. His view positions Intervision as a venue where creative talent can shine without interference, a principle underscored by official statements about the event’s structure and governance.
According to Mishustin, the rules governing the creative competition will be established in collaboration with partner countries. A permanent organizing committee will be formed, and representatives of national juries will be elected to participate in evaluating performances. This approach aims to ensure transparency, fairness, and broad international participation, while also enabling meaningful cultural exchange among diverse audiences.
In related early announcements, Tikhon Zhiznevsky referenced an earlier proposal linked to the concept of Intervision and identified associations with a historical project titled Bremen Musicians. The reference underscores an effort to root the competition in a broader narrative of music and collaboration, linking contemporary creative endeavors with resonant cultural motifs from European folklore and heritage. The overall direction emphasizes inclusivity and shared cultural dialogue as core principles guiding the event’s development.
As the planning unfolds, organizers are expected to address key aspects such as the competition’s format, eligibility criteria for participants, and mechanisms for judging that reflect both artistic merit and cultural significance. The emphasis on a politically neutral, artist-first framework continues to shape communications from officials and media partners. Stakeholders anticipate a program that not only highlights musical talent but also creates opportunities for cross-cultural understanding, collaboration with international juries, and the exchange of ideas that enrich viewers across Canada, the United States, and beyond.
Given the scale of the project and its potential impact on foreign cultural diplomacy, observers will be watching closely how Intervision evolves from concept to televised competition. The event’s success will hinge on robust governance, clear artistic standards, effective audience engagement, and the continued commitment to protecting cultural heritage while embracing contemporary world culture. In that light, St. Petersburg is positioned to host a competition that aims to resonate with audiences globally while anchoring itself in Russia’s vibrant artistic landscape.