The CEO of Øya Festival in Norway defends the festival's ties to Israel amid boycotts, stating that cultural boycotts do not impact activities in Israel. Despite criticism and protests, the festival continues to operate despite ties to KKR and the controversy surrounding its ownership.
Øya Festival CEO Defends Israel Amid Boycotts
The CEO of Øya Festival in Norway has defended the festival's ties to Israel, claiming that boycotts targeting music festivals do not impact activities in the country. Despite facing criticism and protests, the festival continues to operate despite its ownership by Superstruct Entertainment, acquired by parent company KKR in a $1.3 billion deal. Superstruct Entertainment owns a number of festivals across the UK and Europe.
KKR Ties to Israel
KKR, an investment group with financial ties to the Coastal GasLink pipeline and Israeli corporations operating in Palestinian territories, has faced backlash from artists who have boycotted festivals with connections to KKR. Øya Festival became a target of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement for Palestine due to its ownership by KKR.
Boycott Controversy
Despite Øya Festival's claims that its revenue does not contribute to Israel's occupation of Palestine, the festival has been criticized over its ownership. Artists and promoters were encouraged to boycott the event, while audiences were asked to cancel tickets. Protestors gathered outside the festival entrance, prompting CEO Tonje Kaada to defend the festival's stance.
Effectiveness of Boycotts
Kaada argued that boycotts target culture rather than affecting change in Israel. She suggested that artists can make a bigger impact by voicing their views on stage, as demonstrated by Irish rap trio Kneecap, who denounced KKR during their performance at Øya Festival. Kaada emphasized the need for different approaches to achieve common goals and urged collaboration over cancellation culture.
Alternative Approaches
Last month, music group Soft Play explained their decision to perform at a festival despite denouncing its KKR ownership, stating that canceling their performance would not allow them to advocate for the Palestinian people. The group highlighted the importance of spreading awareness and solidarity through their platform.
Published on 13 August 2025 by Ben Robinson
