Vietnam Wins Intervision Amidst Allegations of Pre-Planned Outcome
MOSCOW – vietnam secured victory at the Intervision Song Contest,sparking controversy and accusations of a pre-resolute result. The win has drawn criticism, with one Russian official describing the event as “absolutely bizarre propaganda.” Norwegian broadcaster NRK‘s Urix program reports on the fallout from the contest and concerns over it’s future.
Intervision, a globally-broadcast song competition, concluded recently with Vietnam’s entry taking the top prize. The result has ignited debate,particularly after comments from Dmitry Kalatsjov,a Russian official involved in the event’s organization,surfaced. Kalatsjov suggested the outcome was engineered too favor the United States, which was initially slated to participate. He stated, “We have to show how happy we are in the Americans now. The American artist has to go home and tell you how great it was here!” Kalatsjov further asserted, “I think it’s planned like that.”
NRK interviewed members of the public in Moscow following the announcement, finding limited enthusiasm for the contest and its outcome. The broadcaster’s report highlights the perception that the victory was not organic.
Despite the controversy, organizers have announced that Intervision will be held again next year, with Saudi Arabia as the host nation. The New York Times reported on the upcoming event on September 20,2025.
