Today the parliament of the European Union had a very special guest: No less than Eurovision winner Conchita Wurst! Her programme in Brussels included a press conference as well as a concert in front of the parliament building. Conchita was originally invited by the Vice-President of the European Parliament, Ulrike Lunacek from the Austrian Greens. She got approval from members of four other political groups which made the event possible.
During the official press conference, Conchita Wurst once again made clear what she stands and fights for. “I just don’t get why there’s a problem with same-sex marriage. Because for me a perfect future would be where we don’t have to talk about unnecessary things like sexuality or the colour of your skin. Of course it’s important for an individual person but it’s not important for our society,” the Austrian singer said. Upon being asked about the concept of the EU she made a clear pro-European statement. “I see Europe as a very strong community. I think this continent is so beautiful with this unity we have. For me it would be the wrong way to think about splitting up,” Conchita stated.
The concert itself was attended by hundreds of MEPs and officials as well as locals from Brussels. Other than her winning song Rise Like a Phoenix, Conchita also performed several cover songs and her 2012 national final entry That’s What I Am. Afterwards, the Eurovision winner was overwhelmed with praise and support from various political parties. “Conchita Wurst is a symbol for being able to be yourself,” the Dutch Liberal Sophie in ‘t Veld said.
#Conchita delivering a good speech on diversity and respect being core values of the European Union. I agree! pic.twitter.com/hGTLLskPN1
— Gilles Bordelais (@Gilles_PPDE) 8. Oktober 2014
However, the event also had to face a significant amount of criticism – especially from the right-wing political groups. Several politicians claimed it was a “green travesty show” and a waste of money. The costs for the event (18,000€) were covered by the Greens fraction – Conchita Wurst herself received no fee.
Source: Tiroler Tageszeitung | The Local Austria • Picture courtesy: Yves Herman (Reuters)
