Croatia will not be returning to the Eurovision Song Contest 2014, national broadcaster Hrvatska radiotelevizija (HRT) announced earlier today.
HRT cited a lack of funds and a difficult economic situation regarding their withdrawal from the next competition. However, the announcement asserts this is only temporary; HRT says that they aim to improve upon previous results and reach a better place in the context the next time they enter.
Croatia’s entry in 2013, “Mižerja”, failed to reach the Grand Final, getting 13th place in its semifinal. Croatia last qualified for the final in 2009 with the song “Lijepa Tena” by Igor Cukrov feat. Andrea, after being chosen by the jury.
HRT also said, however, that they will still continue to provide quality programs in fulfilling its role as Croatia’s public broadcaster.
What is your reaction to HRT’s decision? Will Croatia be missed in Eurovision 2014? Tell us in the ESC United’s Croatia 2014 forum.