NextFin news, On Saturday, September 20, 2025, Russia officially launched the Intervision Song Contest in Moscow, reviving the Soviet-era international music competition as an alternative to Eurovision, from which Russia has been banned since 2022 due to its invasion of Ukraine.
The event, held at a Moscow concert hall, features 23 participating countries, including China, India, Brazil, South Africa, Belarus, and several Central Asian states, reflecting Russia's current political and economic alliances such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. The United States is also represented by Australian-Greek singer Vassy, who replaced the original US entrant Brandon Howard after his withdrawal citing family reasons.
Russian President Vladimir Putin personally signed a decree in February 2025 to revive Intervision, aiming to "develop international cultural and humanitarian co-operation," according to Kremlin officials. The contest is promoted as a celebration of traditional, family, cultural, ethical, and religious values, contrasting with Eurovision's emphasis on inclusivity and diversity.
Russia's entry is the pop singer Yaroslav Dronov, known as Shaman, who is recognized for patriotic songs supporting Moscow's war effort in Ukraine. His contest song, "Straight to the Heart," is a love ballad, marking a softer image for Russia amid ongoing conflict.
The contest's voting will be conducted by a professional jury with one member from each country, rather than a public vote. Organizers claim the voting system was specially designed by a renowned scientist and mathematician.
Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov emphasized that the Russian government supports the arts and cultural promotion, dismissing accusations that Intervision is a political or propaganda tool. However, Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the contest as "an instrument of hostile propaganda" aimed at whitewashing Russia's aggressive policies.
The Intervision Song Contest is broadcast live on Russian television and is expected to be available online or on TV in participating countries, which collectively represent over 4 billion people, more than half the world's population.
The revival of Intervision echoes Russia's previous efforts to create alternative international events after being excluded from Western institutions, such as the Games of the Future following Olympic bans.
Unlike Eurovision's flamboyant and camp style, Intervision emphasizes traditional costumes, folk music, and cultural heritage, with performances in various languages celebrating national identities. The contest's organizers highlight the importance of music as a unifying language and a means to preserve cultural traditions.
The Intervision Song Contest's inaugural event since the Soviet era marks a significant cultural and geopolitical statement by Russia amid strained relations with the West and ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
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