BUDAPEST, Hungary – The Hungarian government has banned the Irish band Kneecap from performing in the country, citing “anti-Semitic hate speech” and a policy against admitting supporters of terrorism.
The decision follows an investigation into the band’s performance at the Glastonbury Festival in England a few weeks prior. Hungarian media reported that an economist and journalist, Tamás Vajda, sent an open letter to the Sziget Festival organizers. Vajda argued that Kneecap openly glorifies Hamas and Hezbollah, making their performance a provocation against the Jewish community and an attack on democracy, human rights, and art itself.
Kneecap’s prior performances have drawn controversy, including a stage set up with messages like “Fuck Israel, Free Palestine.” The Glastonbury investigation was initiated due to public order concerns but was later terminated. The band commented on the closure, calling it “one element of the political-police intimidation attempt at the festival.” They also noted the British prime minister deemed their Glastonbury performance inappropriate and stated they experienced state intimidation, without receiving a public apology after the investigation concluded.
The announcement of Kneecap’s scheduled performance at Hungary’s Sziget Festival sparked demonstrations and petitions. János Bóka and Mazsihis, a prominent Jewish organization, also addressed the matter. Sziget Festival organizers had previously confirmed Kneecap’s participation, framing the event as an “Island of Freedom” where freedom of expression is a fundamental right, regardless of the organizers’ agreement with the artists’ views. The festival’s press chief stated that cancel culture and cultural boycotts are not solutions.
Among those signing petitions against the band was Ferenc Demjén. Several artists and groups, including the Hungarian National Dance Ensemble, indicated they would withdraw from the festival if Kneecap’s invitation was not rescinded.
In mid-July, protesters gathered on the bridge leading to Óbuda Island, aiming to prevent Kneecap’s performance. Representatives from Mazsihis, the Hungarian Jewish Prayer Association, and the Rabbit Council issued statements on behalf of the Jewish community and peace advocates, asserting that Hungary has no place for individuals who support terrorists. Tamás Róna described Kneecap as potentially using the Sziget Festival to spread hate.
There is support for reopening the previously halted investigation into the band. Organizers have been urged to cancel Kneecap’s appearance.
