The BBC reports that Eurovision organizers have updated the contest’s rules, stating that a country involved in an armed conflict may be barred from hosting the competition the following year if it wins.
The amendment, approved by the contest’s governing body following feedback from participating broadcasters after Eurovision 2026 in Vienna, also applies when a “sensitive geopolitical situation” affects the “security, safety or stability” of the winning country or its immediate region.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes Eurovision, may commission an independent security assessment of the winner’s region where necessary. The EBU will then consult the Reference Group to determine whether the winning broadcaster can safely host the contest. If it cannot, an alternative broadcaster will be selected, but it will not be required to stage the event on behalf of another member.
The rule change is expected to draw particular attention because of Israel’s continued participation amid criticism of its military actions in Gaza. It could also affect Ukraine, which has been at war with Russia since 2022. Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra won Eurovision that year, but security concerns led organizers to move the 2023 contest from Kyiv to Liverpool.
Other changes raise the minimum participation age from 16 to 18 and clarify rules on backing tracks. From next year, backing tracks may not “unduly assist” performers, including by featuring pre-recorded vocals carrying the main melody. The EBU said the change is intended to protect the integrity of live performances.
The 2027 contest will be held in Bulgaria after Bulgarian entrant Dara won Eurovision 2026 with ‘Bangaranga’.
