Israel-Palestine crisis: Organisers cancel MTV Europe Music Awards

Organisers of the 2023 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) have cancelled the event citing the unfolding conflict in the Gaza region and the “volatility of world events” as reasons.

The announcement was contained in a statement by film and TV production company Paramount.

“Given the volatility of world events, we have decided not to move forward with the 2023 MTV EMAs out of an abundance of caution for the thousands of employees, crew members, artists, fans, and partners who travel from all corners of the world to bring the show to life.

“The MTV EMAs are an annual celebration of global music. As we watch the devastating events in Israel and Gaza continue to unfold, this does not feel like a moment for a global celebration. With thousands of lives already lost, it is a moment of mourning. We look forward to hosting the MTV EMAs again in November of 2024.” the statement reads.

Given the volatility of world events, we have decided not to move forward with the 2023 MTV EMAs out of an abundance of caution for the thousands of employees, crew members, artists, fans, and partners who travel from all corners of the world to bring the show to life.

— MTV EMA (@mtvema) October 19, 2023

The 2023 EMAs was set to be a historic one as it would be the first time the maiden Afrobeats category would be awarded.

Also Read: Nigerian Stars nominated for MTV EMA’s inaugural Afrobeats category

Nigerian superstars Asake, Arya Starr, Burna Boy, Davido, and Rema were nominated for the award alongside Malian-born French singer Aya Nakamura.

The annual ceremony, which celebrates music and artists from across the globe, was due to be held at the Paris Nord Villepinte exhibition centre, on 5 November, but will now be rescheduled for November 2024.