Bratislava, 24 June 2025 - In recent days, we have seen public reactions, petitions and concerns from several organisations regarding the performance of the world-renowned artist YE at the Rubicon Festival 2025 in Bratislava. On behalf of the organizers, we would like to provide the public with a clear and responsible statement on the whole situation.

Freedom of expression is a fundamental pillar of a democratic society. Art has always been a space for the search for truth, the expression of identity and the confrontation of opinions - often controversial ones. Everyone has the right to his or her own opinion, as long as his or her expression does not lead to violence or hatred.

In the past, YE has expressed attitudes that have sparked serious social debate and public outrage - including unacceptable statements about the Jewish community and disturbing historical references. These statements have been rightly criticized and have led to the termination of collaborations with several global brands.

However, Ye subsequently deleted his comments, publicly apologised and admitted that he needed time for self-reflection and professional help. In one of his official statements, he said:

"I regret my words and the way they were perceived. My intentions were never about spreading hate. I am an artist, not a politician. I am a person who makes mistakes, learns from them and moves on."

YE is a global pop culture icon, winner of 24 Grammy Awards, a fashion visionary and an artist who has greatly influenced the evolution of modern music, design and social debate. He was invited to the Rubicon Festival solely because of his work and its immense cultural value.

Rubicon Festival is not a political event. We are apolitical and refuse to be used for any ideological struggle. Our mission is to bring to Slovakia exceptional musical experiences, inspiring artists and to bring people together regardless of opinions, beliefs or origins.

More than 30 artists from different countries and backgrounds will perform at the festival. Each of them has their own attitude to the world - some of them express themselves publicly, others do not. We don't plan to make political or ideological credentials for anyone.

Rubicon Festival has one goal - to be a world-class cultural event that will bring visibility, inspiration, new impulses and experiences to Slovakia that people will carry with them for a lifetime.

Moreover, Ye's participation has significant economic and social benefits:

• Making Slovakia visible on the global music map
  
  
• Increased tourism and media interest in Bratislava
  
  
• Estimated benefits in millions of euros for the domestic economy and the state budget
  
  

We believe that culture has the power to unite, not divide. Rubicon Festival will continue to stand for the values of diversity, respect, artistic freedom and responsibility. We believe that festival-goers deserve to see one of the most influential artists of our time live - not for his past, but for his music, his vision and his power to inspire.

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