To The Head Of Rádio e Televisão de Portugal,

I am writing to you today to try and convince you that Portugal should reconsider their decision not to enter Eurovision in 2016.

I understand your withdrawal came after a long and intensive evaluation of Portugal’s participation in the competition, and that you have chosen not to include the Eurovision Song Contest in your programming grid. I also know that you intend to return in 2017. But I believe that skipping 2016 is a mistake.

For me, Portugal is one of the most important countries  contributing to the wonderful blend of cultures and music that defines Eurovision. Each year the entry from Portugal exposes Europe and the world to the beautiful Portuguese language and culture. It was seeing the lovely Portuguese entries year after year that inspired me to visit Portugal in 2008, and I’m so glad I did.

Portugal consistently sends uplifting and unique entries year after year. The rhythms, language and culture of Portuguese music is something that no other country can offer, and something many Eurovision fans look forward to. While it is unfortunate that this enthusiasm has not always been reflected in the voting outcome, I can assure you that the Portuguese entry is an absolutely essential piece of the Eurovision puzzle, much like Portugal’s active role in the European community.

Portugal is a Eurovision heritage country with so many years of entries. Entering Eurovision 48 times is something to be proud of, and songs like Ha um mar que nos separa and Quero ser tua have added to the wonderful catalogue of entries from over the years.

Please reconsider your decision, because a Eurovision Song Contest without Portugal is a very sad thing to see. Perhaps a 2016 entry could even lead to the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest being held in Lisbon?

Sincerely,

An Australian fan

To the Head Of TV Entertainment RTP,

Why?

48 times and counting. What’s another year?

People of the world are sick of visiting cold countries! 2017 is the year for sunshine and sardines!

I love the idea of a refresh – RESET, REFRESH and surprise us, NOW. Like a Portuguese tart! It has a lot of history but is always fresh, so eat it while it’s hot.

Listen to your people – a Crowdfunding campaign? Who does that – people who love their country, their music and their Eurovision.

I visited Lisbon in 2015 and I want more. I make a pledge to visit Portugal every year that I attend Eurovision. Eurovision has broadened my geographic knowledge and made me want to visit different places including Portugal. Which BTW reminded me of Australia (and I love my country).

Katia Averia has put her hand up. Say YES. Ask her brother to chip in some money! If not, go to any Fado bar. Pick one of your many fantastic singers (so many to choose from, maybe your the lucky country).

Get Nando’s (famous in various countries for Peri Peri sauce and Portuguese Chicken) to sponsor the entrant. I’m sure they’ll have some great ideas to create a fantastic social, advertising and media campaign (look them up on Wikipedia).

Use the world’s biggest free resource, the internet. Get some tips from Switzerland and find an International star to sing for you. Hint: Australia is desperate to go again (perhaps under the title of Portugal)!

Quero Ser Tua ‘went off’ at the Euro Fan Café’ in Vienna. People are listening. Oh Oh Oh Oh Oh. Remember when Russia won in 2008? All I heard was “it’s Russia’s time to win”. Well, last year in Vienna I heard a lot of “it’s Portugal’s time to win”! I can’t say you will win but I predict if a country in your region does, tourists will be lining up at your door.

To be serious though…

…This is a great opportunity that not every country in the world has. I’m from Australia. We have been lucky enough to participate once (most likely). One time. And so many others will never have the chance. But Portugal does. I would love to showcase our talent every year. And it’s not just about the talent; it’s about so many things:

Tradition. Pride. Competition. Showcasing. Celebrating. Peace.
But most importantly, although we have our differences, we can come together as a united people and enjoy a moment together – a moment that can change your life forever.

Think of all the people with sad faces right now. Then think of all the people with smiles on their faces when you agree to reinstate your participation. Even people from Australia!

Don’t give up.