Eurovision Song Contest 2025: Chasing the Melodic Borderland between Geneva and Basel
Curious to discover where the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) 2025's host city lies, nestled between Geneva and Basel in Switzerland? If you're a German fan, your vote might sway the decision towards the alluring border city of Basel. Yet, Geneva, boasting its cosmopolitan vibe and international spirit, is also on the ballot. The ultimate decision will fall on Friday.
The Eurovision Song Contest: A Grand Musical Showdown
At the ESC, over 35 nations engage in an exhilarating musical standoff, competing to entertain and captivate the globe. Each nation submits a single song, representing its unique cultural and musical flavor. The victorious nation has the option to host the following ESC, even though they are not obliged to do so. Switzerland seized the opportunity in 2024, with Nemo's song "The Code" from the Rhine-side city of Basel.
Basel: "Transcending Borders"
Basel sports the tagline "transcending borders," a fitting message for an event that celebrates international camaraderie and musical diversity. The city lies at the intersection of Switzerland, Germany, and France, effectively erasing borderlines for its residents. Its inclusive atmosphere provides a harmonious blend of local and global elements, making Basel an alluring and fitting choice for the ESC.
Major events, such as the annual Fasnacht festival, Art Basel, and significant sporting events, have made Basel a fixture on the global events calendar. The St. Jakobshalle, which hosts the ESC, boasts a capacity of 12,000 spectators. Adjacent to it, Basel proposes a public viewing area for up to 20,000 fans at the nearby football stadium.
Geneva: The International City
Geneva proudly advocates its status as the most international city in Switzerland, where almost 40% of the inhabitants on the Rhone are foreigners. This multicultural melting pot is home to various international organizations such as the United Nations and a multitude of private aid organizations. Additionally, Geneva features the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the group responsible for organizing the ESC. Perhaps the EBU's 75th anniversary in 2025 might sway the decision towards Geneva as the host city.
The event would unfold at the Palexpo exhibition center, strategically located near the airport. Regularly playing host to large exhibitions and international congresses, it accommodates as many as 15,000 attendees.
Accessibility and Switzerland's Openness
Geneva offers seamless transportation from the airport and city center, with only 7 minutes between the two by train. Basel can be reached within 40-50 minutes via bus and train from the smaller Basel-Mulhouse Airport in France. Swiss travel is seamless, ensuring that attendees can explore the country easily during their stay.
However, surveys reveal that only half of the Swiss population warms up to the idea of hosting the ESC. Reservations stem from critics arguing that political agenda rather than musical talent guides on-stage performances. For instance, the 2024 event in Malmo sparked protests against Israel's participation. Some find it disconcerting that the ESC serves as a platform for marginalized groups, like non-binary individuals, as demonstrated by Nemo's self-identification as non-binary.
Despite the skepticism voiced by some political figures, enthusiasm for the ESC persists among German fans. The appeal of Basel's cross-border mentality and diverse offerings could make for a captivating Eurovision experience, while Geneva's international status and the EBU headquarters might also draw interest.
