Eurovision rules are changing.
Erika Vikman represented Finland this spring at Eurovision. PDO
Eurovision rules will be renewed next year, informs the European Broadcasting Union Ebu. In the future, for example, campaigns supported by countries’ governments or third parties are prohibited.
Ebu points out that proper campaigning of artists and songs is a part of the music industry, but not when it is for example countries’ governments or agencies behind it.
The release reminds us that if public broadcasters or artists participate in campaigning that tries to improperly influence the results of the competition, there will be consequences.
Another big change concerns public voting. In the future, instead of 20 votes, one person can only cast 10 votes per payment method.
– The Eurovision Song Contest must always be kept as a place where music is at the center – and where we still truly stand together with the power of music, Eurovision Director Martin Green states in the press release.
This year, a campaign by the Israeli government’s advertising agency drew criticism.
Yuval Raphael represented Israel with the song New Day Will Rise this spring. PDO
Juries
Next year, the juries will make a comeback in the semi-finals. In the three previous years, the juries have only voted in the final.
Juries are also increasing in size. In the past, five people have sat on the council, in the future the number will be seven.
We want to increase the diversity of the judges, so in the future we want music editors, critics, music teachers, professionals in the creative field such as choreographers and stage managers, as well as experienced people in the music industry. In the future, the jury must have at least two members aged 18–25.
The members of the jury must sign an agreement in which they undertake to vote independently and impartially.
Ebu is also improving technical security measures to ensure that there is no fraud in the voting.
“While we are confident that the 2025 race produced a valid and strong result, these changes will help provide stronger safeguards and increase participation so fans can be confident that every vote counts and every vote is heard,” Green said in a statement.
Next spring’s Eurovision will be held in Vienna, Austria. Yle has not announced whether Finland will participate in next spring’s song contest.
Finland’s participation in next year’s games is still a mystery. MATTI MATIKAINEN