Eurovision bars countries in armed conflict from hosting contest

The European Broadcasting Union announced significant rule changes for the Eurovision Song Contest on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, most notably barring countries involved in armed conflicts from hosting the competition. The new framework, which takes effect for the 2027 contest, allows the EBU to withdraw hosting rights from a winning country if an armed conflict, sensitive geopolitical situation, or other circumstance materially affects the security, safety, or stability of its state or immediate region.

The decision follows a period of heightened tension around the contest. Five countries-Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Slovenia-boycotted the 2026 edition in Vienna, citing their inability to participate alongside Israel due to its ongoing war in Gaza. Israel, which has been at war in Gaza since 2023, came close to winning the competition in both 2025 and 2026, finishing second on each occasion. The EBU's statement did not mention any country by name, but the context of recent boycotts and near-victories underscores the impetus for the change.

Under the new rules, the EBU can commission an independent security assessment of a winning country's region. Following...