A planned concert by controversial American rapper and music producer Kanye West in Italy has been cancelled after authorities raised concerns over public safety and the possibility of protests.
West, who was scheduled to perform on 18 July in the northern Italian city of Reggio Emilia as part of the Pulse of Gaia Festival, was blocked from appearing following a decision by local authorities. Officials said the move came after several organisations, including members of the local Jewish community, expressed concerns about the event.
The decision was announced by provincial prefect Salvatore Angieri, who said authorities had carefully assessed the risks associated with hosting the concert. According to officials, concerns included the expected size of the crowd, the short time between scheduled festival events, and the possibility of counter-demonstrations.
Another major performance scheduled for the festival, featuring Travis Scott on 17 July, was also cancelled as part of the same security decision.
Authorities said the cancellation was necessary to protect public order and safety. They noted that previous cancellations of West’s concerts in other countries and the potential for public unrest were important factors in the final decision.
West, who also goes by the name Ye, has faced significant criticism in recent years over a series of antisemitic remarks and statements perceived as praising Nazi leader Adolf Hitler. The backlash has resulted in multiple cancelled performances and damaged business relationships around the world.
In recent months, several countries and event organisers have distanced themselves from the rapper. The United Kingdom barred him from entering the country, while festival appearances and planned concerts in France, Poland and Switzerland were also cancelled.
Despite the latest setback, West continues to have performances scheduled elsewhere. He recently performed in Istanbul and is expected to appear at upcoming concerts in the Netherlands, Tirana and Prague.
Earlier this year, West attempted to address the controversy surrounding him by publishing a full-page advertisement in the Wall Street Journal, stating that he was not a Nazi or an antisemite and expressing support for Jewish people.
The cancellation in Italy adds to a growing list of international venues and organisers choosing not to host the rapper amid continuing concerns over his public comments and the reactions they generate.
