The EBU, the European Broadcasting Union, have released a statement, regarding the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, in Vienna.

The statement reads as follows:

“Members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), meeting today at the General Assembly in Geneva, have backed a set of targeted changes to the Eurovision Song Contest rules designed to reinforce trust, transparency and the neutrality of the event. This vote means that all EBU Members who wish to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 and agree to comply with the new rules are eligible to take part.

Attendees representing EBU Members were asked to vote in a secret ballot on whether they were sufficiently content with the new measures and safeguards announced last month without having a vote on participation in next year’s event.

A large majority of Members agreed that there was no need for a further vote on participation and that the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 should proceed as planned, with the additional safeguards in place.  

Ahead of the vote, there was a wide-ranging discussion where Members expressed a variety of views on participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. Many Members also took the opportunity to stress the importance of protecting the independence of public service media and the freedom of the press to report, not least in conflict zones such as Gaza.

Speaking after the discussion, EBU President Delphine Ernotte Cunci said:

“The result of this vote demonstrates our Members’ shared commitment to protecting transparency and trust in the Eurovision Song Contest, the world’s largest live music event.”

“I would like to thank all Members for their thoughtful, respectful and constructive contributions during today’s session and throughout the extensive consultation process undertaken this year.”

“These discussions have led to meaningful changes to the rules of the Eurovision Song Contest, ensuring it remains a place for unity and cultural exchange.”

Following the vote, broadcasters will now be asked to confirm their participation in the 2026 Contest. The full list of participants for the 70th-anniversary edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will be announced before Christmas.”

Let us know what you think about the EBU and the Eurovision Song Contest – either in the comments below or on our FACEBOOK, BLUESKY, TWITTER, YOUTUBE, INSTAGRAM and TIKTOK pages.

The Eurovision Community, which Eurovision Ireland are a part of, celebrates diversity through music. Please keep your comments respectful. We will not tolerate racism, sexism, ableism, homophobia, transphobia, body-shaming or any other derogatory or hostile language.

Author: Richard Taylor

Source: EBU