At the first Eurovision Song ContestA yearly international song competition between European countries, and recently Australia. final in 1956, all the contestants wore tuxedos or evening gowns, and were accompanied by an orchestra.

No-one could have predicted it would one day turn into a four-hour extravaganza with outrageous costumes and huge budgets.

This Sunday will see an especially unique Eurovision final. Ukraine, the champions of 2022, are still fighting off the Russian invasion, so the contest will be hosted by second-placed Britain on their behalf.

The UK hopes to make it a dazzling display of international unity. Liverpool, where the event will take place, has organised a "scouseA term for someone or something from Liverpool, UK. -Ukrainian mashup", a week-long party with traditional Ukrainian food.

And it is to maintain this sense of unity, insiders say, that the BBC is being especially vigilant not to let politics impinge on the occasion. It says the contest should be all about music.

This year's UK contestant, Mae Muller, is known for her outspoken left-wingA range of beliefs that are the opposite of right-wing ideas. People on the political left usually believe in collective responsibility and the good of society. They often, though not always, support higher taxes and a more active, interventionist government. political views.

But some think it is silly to try to keep politics out of Eurovision. It is the politics, they say, that makes it such a unique event.

Politics has often brought Eurovision viewers together. Last year the whole event had a note of defiance as nation after nation voted for Ukraine, partly to send a message that Europe has their back.

And the tournament has often been used to make political statements in favour of inclusivity. Most famously, Eurovision has long been a flagship of LGBT+ rights. 

Others think it is simply impossible to keep politics out of an event like Eurovision. The Metro MayorA type of directly elected mayor in England. of Liverpool has warned that Britain's crumbling transport system will be unable to cope with the 100,000 visitors hoping to come to the city.¹ Many fear the UK's political failures will be showcased for the whole world.

Yes: Music has no language: it speaks directly to the heart. That means it is the perfect medium for bringing people together. It should be allowed to work its magic without interference by divisive politics.

No: Music has always been political, ever since BeethovenGerman composer (1770 - 1827) whose intense, dramatic work revolutionised classical music. dedicated his Third Symphony to Napoleon to show his support for the French RevolutionThe overthrow (and subsequent execution) of France's king and aristocratic government in 1789. The revolution became infamous and influential worldwide.. Likewise, Eurovision will always be an arena for politics to play out. 

Or... Politics does not need to be divisive. It was a political commitment that rallied Europe behind Ukraine last year. Music can embrace politics and still unite people.