The organizers of the Eurovision Song Contest have amended the rules of participation. As a result, countries involved in armed conflicts will no longer be able to host the contest the following year, even if their representative won the previous edition. The amendment was approved by the reference group that coordinates the contest, following suggestions received from participating broadcasters after the 2026 edition, according to the BBC, as cited by IPN.
The changes also target winning countries in a delicate geopolitical situation that affects the security and stability of that state or region. The change of rules is seen as a reaction to Israel’s presence at Eurovision, against the backdrop of criticism related to its military actions in the Gaza Strip and the Middle East.
After the failed attempt to exclude Israel from this year’s edition, five participating countries boycotted Eurovision – Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Iceland. Despite opposition, Israel participated and the Israeli contestant even secured the second place.
The amendment of the regulation also affects Russia, which invaded Ukraine in 2022, as well as Ukraine, which won the competition in 2022. Due to security risks, the 2023 edition was organized in Liverpool, United Kingdom.
The Eurovision reference group has approved other rule changes as well: the minimum participation age has been raised from 16 to 18 years. Also, the provision related to backing vocals has been modified. Thus, recordings that double the performer’s voice, used so far to thicken or give more clarity to the live sound, will no longer be allowed.
The next edition of Eurovision will take place in Bulgaria, after Dara, with her song Bangaranga, won this year’s contest.
