Terrorism alert? MTV cancels its awards in Europe "out of caution” for its employees
"This does not feel like a moment for a global celebration. With thousands of lives already lost, it is a moment of mourning," the statement said.
The MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs), which were scheduled to take place next month in Paris, have been canceled. The organizers explained that the decision was made “out of caution” towards their employees, given the situation that is being experienced globally due to the war between Israel and the Palestinian terrorist group, Hamas.
The awards event had artistic figures such as Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, Bad Bunny and the Foo Fighters among the nominees, and was to be held on November 5 in Paris Nord Villepinte.
However, in a statement published through the MTV EMA social networks, the organizers explained that the ceremony will not be held “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.” Likewise, they noted that they do not consider this time appropriate for a global celebration due to the “devastating events” and the “thousands of lives already lost.”
“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,” expressed the organization.
Despite this, the MTV EMAs assured that voting will continue and that the winning artists will receive their awards. “We look forward to hosting the MTV EMAs again in November of 2024,” the statement said.
Growing fear of terrorist attacks
MTV’s decision is not surprising given that the war between Israel and Hamas has already reached alarming levels not only for those involved but also for the rest of the international community.
Following the attacks by the Palestinian terrorist group, multiple protests have emerged worldwide, and fears of terrorist attacks have increased. France has been the most affected European country, as it is receiving threats of possible attacks almost daily, which has caused the nation to increase its security measures and carry out evacuations at several airports and temporary closures of emblematic places such as the Palace of Versailles.
However, the United States Department of State (DOS) recently issued a global alert due to rising tensions in various locations worldwide and the potential for terrorist attacks.