Introduction to the Controversy
The BBC has faced criticism for broadcasting a controversial set by the punk duo Bob Vylan at the Glastonbury Festival. The performance included chants of "death to the IDF" and other derogatory comments, which were available to stream live on iPlayer. The BBC’s Executive Complaints Unit (ECU) has partially upheld four complaints about the broadcast, finding that it broke editorial guidelines related to harm and offense.
The Performance and the Backlash
The performance by Bob Vylan triggered strong criticism after the event in June. The band’s vocals included chants of "death, death to the IDF" and other derogatory comments. The BBC’s decision not to pull the live feed after the comments were made on stage was widely criticized. Samir Shah, chairman of the BBC, said that the decision was "undoubtedly a mistake". Director-General Tim Davie apologized, saying: "I deeply regret that such insulting and unfortunate behavior appeared on the BBC."
Anti-Semitic Comments
The ECU found that the band’s comments breached the BBC’s guidelines on harm and offense. The comments included chants against the IDF, the use of slogans such as "from the river to the sea" and "Free Palestine", and references to a record company in abusive terms. The ECU found that these comments could be characterized as anti-Semitic. However, the ECU did not find that the comments were likely to promote or incite crime.
The Verdict
The ECU verdict stated that the references to "Free Palestine" and "From the River to the Sea" could be seen as an expression of support for efforts to establish a Palestinian state, rather than a threat of violent action. The singing of "death, death to the IDF" was found to be "clearly problematic" but was aimed at an institution rather than individuals. The ECU also found that the BBC had breached its guidelines on impartiality, but only in relation to the harm and offense caused by the comments.
Impartiality and High-Risk Performers
The ECU recognized that reporting on a music festival does not have to meet the same standards as news or current affairs. However, the BBC admitted that mistakes were made both before and during the group’s appearance. The band was classified as "high risk" and the feed was monitored, but the show was not stopped after the comments were made. The BBC has since announced changes to the way it streams music performances.
Aftermath and Consequences
After the festival, a small number of senior staff members stepped back from their daily duties to music and live events. The Avon and Somerset police also investigated the band’s comments. Bob Vylan released a statement saying: "We are not for the death of Jews, Arabs or any other breed or group of people. We are for the breakdown of a violent military machine." The controversy has sparked a wider debate about free speech, offense, and the role of the BBC in broadcasting controversial content.
