Eurovision organizers have updated rules to prevent countries involved in armed conflict or sensitive geopolitical situations from hosting the annual song contest. The changes follow controversy over Israel's participation amid the war in Gaza and Ukraine's ongoing conflict with Russia.
The rule change aims to ensure the safety and stability of the Eurovision Song Contest by preventing countries embroiled in conflict from hosting, addressing controversies surrounding recent participants.
Organizers of the Eurovision Song Contest have updated their rules, stipulating that a winning country involved in an armed conflict or facing a sensitive geopolitical situation will be ineligible to host the following year's event. The changes, approved by the Eurovision Reference Group, aim to ensure the safety and stability of the host nation and its region.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) can now commission independent security assessments and, if necessary, appoint an alternative host broadcaster. This formal process addresses situations where a winning country cannot safely stage the competition, as seen when Ukraine, the 2022 winner, could not host in 2023 due to the ongoing war with Russia, leading to the UK hosting in Liverpool.
While not explicitly named, the rule change is seen as a reaction to Israel's participation amid the conflict in Gaza, with some broadcasters having previously expressed safety concerns about hosting the event in Israel. The rule also impacts Ukraine, which has been at war since Russia's invasion in 2022.
In addition to hosting eligibility, other rule updates for 2027 include raising the minimum age for performers from 16 to 18, a measure intended to strengthen safeguarding for younger artists. Regulations concerning backing tracks have also been clarified, emphasizing that while pre-recorded elements are permitted, they cannot replace or unduly assist the live vocal performance of the main melody.
Eurovision director Martin Green stated that these changes provide greater clarity, protect artists, and ensure the contest remains a safe and welcoming environment while preserving its integrity.