Erika Vikman’s Ich Komme, which won Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (Finland’s Eurovision selection) with the largest vote count in the competition’s history, has raised concerns about its suitability for Eurovision. JEF Finland wants to thank the Finnish public for choosing Erika Vikman’s Ich Komme, and at the same time encourage everyone to find their own sexual pleasure.
For decades, Eurovision has served as an arena for self-expression, sexual and gender minorities, and boundary-breaking art. Sexuality, physicality and expressions of identity have entered the homes of Eurovision viewers to spark conversation, astonish, and take a stand on sensitive topics. They have appeared in lyrics, performances, costumes, choreography and stage design. Eurovision proves that even the most human and ordinary things, such as sex and gender, can be political and provocative. Previous moral boundaries have been broken by bringing women’s sexuality, sexual and gender minorities, and even conflicts considered improper to discuss on international stages, into the spotlight. Eurovision artists are often pioneers of social debate and openings, remembered and celebrated even decades later.
The fact that the song addresses sexual freedom from a woman’s perspective is valuable, since women’s sexuality has long been belittled and shamed. The performance doesn’t “wallow in sex” any more than many other pop culture songs, or last year’s Windows95Man performance, which was half-naked. The song is liberating and sparks conversation about women’s pleasure, which is still taboo today compared to men’s sexuality and pleasure. The song raises discussion and presents sexuality from the perspective of empowerment and equal pleasure.
JEF Finland is puzzled by the moral panic that has arisen over Erika Vikman’s selection. The Eurovision entry is chosen democratically, and every Finn has the chance to influence the choice. Music and performance are art, meant both to entertain and to spark discussion. Vikman has succeeded in doing exactly that with her work.
JEF Finland’s President commented on the matter: “I see this moral panic as somewhat artificial, but at the same time demeaning towards women’s sexuality and self-expression.” “I hope, however, that this moral panic sparks reflection on where each of us bases our own sexual education. In line with the basic principles of good sexual health, sexuality belongs to everyone, everyone is allowed to enjoy it, and it should be reciprocal — with women too having the right to pleasure,” states President Nea Baarman.
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Nea Baarman
President