Eurovision changes rules to prevent winners involved in 'armed conflict' from hosting

Eurovision Song Contest organisers have announced changes to the rules, saying winning broadcasters are to be prevented from hosting if involved in armed conflict or a "sensitive geopolitical situation" that could affect the safety of the event.

Traditionally, the competition is hosted by the previous year's winning broadcaster, with the next show due to take place in Bulgaria in 2027 after singer Dara's victory for the country in May.

Following an annual review by the organisers, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the rules have now been updated.

The winning Eurovision broadcaster will now "automatically be ineligible to host the contest if an armed conflict, a sensitive geopolitical situation, or any other situation materially affects the security, safety or stability of their state or immediate region", the rules now state.

Changes to hosting tradition have been made in the past, with the 2023 contest held in Liverpool, in the UK, following Ukraine's win the previous year. At the time, the EBU said the Russia's war made it impossible to begin the 12 months of preparation needed to organise the show.

In the run-up to this year's competition, which was held in Vienna, Austria, countries including Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia all withdrew after Israel's place in the contest was confirmed.

Their boycotts followed criticism from some broadcasters of Israel's role in the competition amid the war in Gaza.

On the night, Israel claimed second place, as it did in 2025.

Changes ensure contest 'remains fair'

The EBU said the rule changes had been made following feedback from participating broadcasters, and that the updates would provide greater clarity for artists and production staff.

Eurovision Song Contest director Martin Green said in a statement: "The Eurovision Song Contest is constantly evolving, and our annual review of the rules is an important part of making sure the contest remains fair, transparent and consistent for all those who participate, including the millions who engage with the event globally.

"Guided, as always, by feedback from our members, we have clarified and strengthened several areas for 2027. These changes are about giving everyone involved greater clarity, protecting artists and ensuring the contest continues to provide a safe and welcoming environment, while preserving the spirit and integrity that make the Eurovision Song Contest so special."

In circumstances involving a potentially difficult situation outside of armed conflict, the country would be assessed by an independent security body to help the EBU determine whether or not they could safely host.

If the winning member is ruled ineligible, the EBU will identify an alternative host broadcaster to "assume all rights, obligations and liabilities associated with hosting the contest", and will not be required to stage the event on behalf of another member.

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The rule changes also include an update to the minimum age for artists.

At the moment, competitors need to be at least 16 on the day of their first rehearsal. This increases to 18 from 2027.

The 2027 Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Bulgaria after singer Dara won this year's event in Vienna, Austria, in May.

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(c) Sky News 2026: Eurovision changes rules to prevent winners involved in 'armed conflict' from hosting