Eurovision Song Contest Overhauls Voting Rules Amidst Geopolitical Concerns
GENEVA – The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) announced meaningful changes to the voting system of the Eurovision Song Contest, effective with the 2026 Grand Final on Saturday, May 16. The revisions come following controversy surrounding the 2024 contest and escalating calls for Israel‘s exclusion due to the war in Gaza.
The EBU stated the “fairness of the Contest is always protected,” emphasizing the importance of the event to its members and audiences. Recent editions have seen increasing geopolitical tensions impact the traditionally celebratory competition.
Several countries, including Ireland, the netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain, threatened to boycott the 2026 contest if israel was allowed to participate. The EBU had previously pledged to discuss Israel’s participation with its members and hold a vote in November.
Under the new rules, fans will be limited to casting 10 votes each, down from 20. Juries will return for the semi-finals for the first time since 2022, establishing a 50-50 split between jury and audience votes in the final. The number of jurors will increase from five to seven, and all jurors will be required to sign a declaration confirming independent and impartial voting. The EBU will also add jurors aged 18-25 to “reflect the appeal” of the contest to younger audiences.
The EBU is also prohibiting participating broadcasters and artists from engaging in promotional campaigns by third parties that coudl influence voting outcomes.This follows reports that an Israeli government agency paid for advertisements and utilized state social media to encourage votes for its contestant, Raphael, according to the BBC.
“These measures are designed to keep the focus where it belongs – on music, creativity and connection,” said EBU Director General Noel Green.”While we are confident the 2025 Contest delivered a valid and robust result, these changes will help provide stronger safeguards and increase engagement so fans can be sure that every vote counts and every voice is heard.”
Green added, “The Eurovision Song Contest must always remain a place where music takes center stage – and where we continue to stand truly United by Music.”
