The European Broadcasting Union isn’t feeling the love for Heilsarmee. Earlier this evening it announced that the Swiss contestants for Eurovision 2013 must change their name—and their look—or withdraw from next May’s contest.

Heilsarmee violates the rule that expressly forbids groups and songs that carry a political message. More specifically, the group, which is made up of Salvation Army members and wears the Salvation Army uniform, is guilty of being connected so strongly with a group of Christians.

They have until tomorrow to accept the name and clothing change. If they decline, then runners-up Carrousel will fly the Swiss flag in Malmo. That wouldn’t be a bad thing, so perhaps today’s announcement was an act of Divine Intervention.

What do you think? Is this ridiculous? And what will they change into? Can pre-contest favourite Melissa loan them some sparklies?

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Brian
Brian
11 years ago

The Salvation Army isn’t political, neither is the song. What a stupid ignorant request from the broadcasters.

Joyces
Joyces
11 years ago

I don’t think so, EBU has told That with the song itself was nothing wrong!

Anthony
Anthony
11 years ago

Does this include all the lyrics referring to the Salvation Army as well?