European Broadcasting Union Revises Eurovision Rules Amid Security Concerns and Participant Age Increase

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has approved a series of significant rule changes for the Eurovision Song Contest, effective from the 2027 competition to be held in Bulgaria. These amendments follow feedback from broadcasters involved in Eurovision 2026 in Vienna and aim to clarify guidelines for broadcasters, artists, and production teams while enhancing participant protection and ensuring a safe contest environment.

A major change concerns the hosting rights of the winning country. Under the new rules, victory no longer guarantees automatic hosting rights for the following year. If war, geopolitical tensions, or other circumstances severely affect the security or stability of the winning country or its region, the EBU may commission an independent security assessment. Based on this, the EBU will consult with its reference group to determine if the winning broadcaster can safely host the event. If not, the EBU may select an alternative broadcaster in another country to organize Eurovision. This marks the first explicit mechanism allowing the EBU to relocate the contest due to security or geopolitical issues.

Another update clarifies the use of playback and prerecorded tracks. Lead vocals must be performed live on stage, maintaining the contest’s core principle. Background vocals and prerecorded elements remain permitted but cannot replace lead singing or provide unfair performance advantages.

Additionally, the minimum age for contestants will rise to 18 years old as of the first rehearsal day starting with Eurovision 2027. This change could directly impact the pool of eligible participants.

These revisions come amid concerns following Israel’s second-place finish in 2026 and ongoing regional conflicts, reflecting the EBU’s efforts to adapt Eurovision’s rules to contemporary challenges.