Russia is set to host its own Eurovision-style contest, the Intervision Song Contest, featuring artists from 23 countries. The event aims to promote ‘traditional family values,’ as stated by Moscow. The revival of this Soviet-era event marks a significant cultural move, highlighting the country’s desire to reconnect with its past while addressing contemporary social issues.
The Intervision Song Contest, originally launched in 1961, was a major international music event that saw participation from countries across Eastern Europe. Despite its historical significance, the contest fell out of favor during the Soviet era and was eventually discontinued. Russia’s decision to revive it suggests a strategic effort to reassert cultural influence and reinforce societal norms.
Officials in Moscow have emphasized that the contest will serve as a platform to promote ‘traditional family values,’ which aligns with the country’s broader social and political agenda. This initiative is part of a larger effort to address what the government perceives as a decline in moral standards and the erosion of family structures. The contest is expected to be a major cultural event, attracting both domestic and international attention.
The revival of the Intervander Song Contest may also be seen as a response to the global focus on Western cultural events like Eurovision. By hosting its own version, Russia aims to carve out a distinct cultural identity and reduce its reliance on Western entertainment formats. This move could have implications for international relations, as it may be perceived as an assertion of cultural sovereignty and political influence.