Organisers of the Eurovision Song Contest have announced an update to the competition's regulations for 2027. Under the new rule, any broadcaster that wins the contest will automatically be ineligible to host if their nation is involved in an "armed conflict" or a "sensitive geopolitical situation."
This decision follows boycott threats made before the 2026 event in Vienna. Several countries, including Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia, demanded Israel's exclusion due to the war in Gaza and ultimately did not participate in the contest held in May.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) stated that the rule change resulted from consultations with participating broadcasters. It aims to provide greater certainty for performers and production teams. Martin Green, Eurovision Song Contest director, commented that the changes are about "giving everyone involved greater clarity, protecting artists and ensuring the contest continues to provide a safe and welcoming environment."
Bulgaria is scheduled to host the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest after singer Dara secured a victory at the event in Vienna, Austria, in May.