Russia Unveils 'Intervision' as Anti-Eurovision Music Contest

The Kremlin announces details of its new international music competition, emphasizing traditional values and excluding LGBTQ+ representation.

Russia's 'Intervision' music contest is designed as a rival to the Eurovision Song Contest, which excluded Russia due to its invasion of Ukraine.
Over 20 countries, including China, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia, have reportedly confirmed participation in the event.
Russian officials claim the competition will showcase musical traditions without 'perversions' or 'mockery of human nature,' contrasting it with Eurovision's celebration of diversity.
Critics highlight Russia's restrictive policies on LGBTQ+ rights, including a ban on public displays of homosexuality and the classification of LGBTQ+ organizations as 'extremist.'
The event reflects Russia's broader cultural and political efforts to assert its values on the global stage while rejecting Western norms.