Eurovision Song Contest organisers have updated the competition’s regulations for 2027, declaring that any victorious broadcaster will “automatically be ineligible to host” should their nation be involved in an “armed conflict” or a “sensitive geopolitical situation”.
The update follows boycott threats ahead of the 2026 event in Vienna, where several countries, including Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland and Slovenia, demanded Israel‘s exclusion due to the war in Gaza. Those nations ultimately did not participate in the most recent contest in May.
According to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), the decision stems from consultations with participating broadcasters and aims to offer increased certainty for performers and production teams.
Eurovision Song Contest director Martin Green said: “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.
open image in gallery“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.”
Bulgaria is set to host the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest following the victory of singer Dara at the event in Vienna, Austria, in May.
Israel has finished second in the last two contests, meaning they came very close to earning hosting rights.
In 2025, Yuval Raphael took the runner-up spot with New Day Will Rise, as he finished behind Austrian singer JJ.
Earlier this year, Noam Bettan secured second place for Israel with his song Michelle.
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Meanwhile, Ukraine has continued to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Just three months after the invasion, Ukraine won Eurovision for just the third time thanks to Kalush Orchestra’s popular hit Stefania.
Ukraine went on to finish third in the 2024 contest, but have failed to challenge for victory in the last two years, finishing ninth in 2025 and 2026.