Eurovision Union Rejects Kazakhstan Membership, Citing Location
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has officially rejected the application for full membership from Kazakhstan's state media holding, Khabar. This decision effectively bars Kazakhstan from participating in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, according to Politico.
The EBU stated that Kazakhstan is located outside the European Broadcasting Area, is not a member of the Council of Europe, and does not hold observer status with the organization. "Khabar Agency currently does not meet the criteria for full membership," the union announced. This comes despite the EBU recently easing its rules in June to allow non-European states to apply for membership. Canada's broadcaster immediately took advantage of this change, achieving full status and preparing for its first participation in 2027, while Kazakhstan was excluded.
Khabar has been an associate member of the EBU for many years and participated in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest five times between 2018 and 2022, achieving second place twice. However, associate status does not grant automatic entry into the main adult competition. Participation in Eurovision is determined by EBU membership, not geographical location, a system that has allowed non-European countries like Australia (since 2015) and Morocco (participated once in 1980 but retains eligibility) to compete.
Israel has participated in Eurovision since the 1970s because its national broadcaster is an EBU member and meets all organizational requirements. Israel has won the contest multiple times and is considered one of Europe's most successful non-European participants. However, Israel's participation has recently been marked by political and public conflicts, protests, and increased scrutiny.
While there are no current discussions about expelling Israel from Eurovision, new EBU regulations adopted in August introduce a significant requirement regarding the hosting of the contest by the winning country. The broadcaster of a winning nation can no longer automatically host the next competition if armed conflict, sensitive geopolitical situations, or other circumstances significantly impact the security and stability of the country or its surrounding region.
