Eurovision Implements Major Voting Overhaul After Public Outcry

The Eurovision Song Contest is changing its rules. This follows major controversy over Israel’s result in the 2025 contest. Organizers announced a series of reforms to protect the competition’s integrity.

These changes come after several national broadcasters questioned the public vote. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has now acted to reinforce trust in the voting process.

New Rules Target Vote Integrity and Jury Independence

Fans will now face a stricter voting limit. Each person can cast only 10 votes, down from 20. This aims to reduce the potential for mass-voting campaigns.

Juries are also making a comeback in the semi-finals. This creates a 50-50 split between jury and public votes in the final. According to the BBC, all jurors must sign a formal declaration of impartiality.

The number of jurors has been increased from five to seven. Younger jurors, aged 18-25, will now be included. This is intended to better reflect the contest’s diverse audience.

Stricter Campaign Rules Address Geopolitical Tensions

The EBU is cracking down on promotional campaigns. Participating broadcasters and artists are now barred from engaging in third-party efforts to influence voting. Any attempts to unduly sway results will lead to sanctions.

This move directly addresses reports that Israeli government agencies ran paid campaigns. Reuters noted similar concerns from multiple countries. The goal is to keep the focus squarely on the music.

These changes arrive amid heightened political tension. Several countries threatened to boycott the 2026 contest over Israel’s participation. The new rules may help calm the turbulent waters.

Thought you’d like to know

What are the main Eurovision voting rule changes?

Fans can now only vote 10 times, down from 20. Juries return to the semi-finals, and all jurors must sign an impartiality declaration. The number of jurors has also increased.

Why did Eurovision change its voting system?

The changes follow controversy around Israel’s 2025 result. Several broadcasters questioned the public vote’s validity, prompting the EBU to implement stronger safeguards.

How does the new jury system work?

Each country will now have seven jurors instead of five. They will vote in both the semi-finals and the final, creating a 50-50 split with the public vote for the ultimate result.

What are the new rules about promotional campaigns?

Broadcasters and artists are now forbidden from facilitating third-party campaigns that could influence voting. This follows reports of state-backed voting campaigns in 2025.

Has the Eurovision voting system been controversial before?

Yes, political voting blocs and alleged irregular voting patterns have been a long-standing issue. The 2025 controversy, however, prompted the most significant reforms in recent years.