Key Highlights
- Eurovision unveils new voting rules aimed at addressing complaints from member countries following Israel’s win.
- The changes include discouraging disproportionate promotion campaigns and capping votes per voter to 10.
- Israel is facing backlash from some countries, with several threatening withdrawal if it participates in the contest next year.
- The European Broadcasting Union will discuss participation at its upcoming General Assembly, but a vote on the issue has been scrapped.
Eurovision Adopts New Voting Rules Amidst Controversy Over Israel’s Participation
Organizers of Eurovision have introduced sweeping changes to the voting system in an attempt to address complaints from member countries, particularly following Israel’s overwhelming victory at this year’s competition. The new rules, which were unveiled on Friday, are a clear indication that the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is leaning towards allowing Israel to continue participating in the prestigious song contest.
Changes to Voting Procedures
The EBU has announced several measures aimed at mitigating concerns over potential geopolitical division during the competition. Among these changes, the organization has pledged to discourage “disproportionate promotion campaigns,” especially those supported by governments or governmental agencies. This move comes in response to allegations that government-sponsored efforts on behalf of Israel may have influenced voting results.
Additionally, the number of votes each individual can cast will be limited to 10 per voter, down from the previous limit of 20. This restriction is intended to prevent voters from maxing out their support for a single act and ensure that traditional Eurovision fans are not overshadowed by pro-Israeli sentiments.
Return of Professional Juries
The professional juries will also make a comeback in the semifinals, which had been absent since 2023. This change is designed to provide a balanced assessment alongside the public votes and help maintain the integrity of the competition. The final round will continue to use a 50/50 mix between jury and public votes.
Technical Safeguards Against Fraud
To further enhance security, the EBU has committed to implementing more robust technical safeguards against voter fraud. These measures are aimed at ensuring fair play and maintaining the credibility of Eurovision as one of Europe’s premier entertainment events.
Backlash and Participation Uncertainty for Israel
The new voting rules come in the wake of significant controversy over Israel’s participation in Eurovision. Several countries, including Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands, have pledged to withdraw from the competition if Israel is allowed to compete next year. This threat of withdrawal has forced the EBU to reconsider its stance on the issue.
Despite these challenges, Israel remains determined to take part in the contest.
The country’s public broadcaster recently launched a new season of “Hakochav Haba” (Rising Star), which traditionally selects Israel’s Eurovision entrant. The show has proceeded without any indication that the future of Israel’s participation is in doubt.
General Assembly and Final Decision
The EBU will convene its General Assembly next month to discuss participation, but a formal vote on the issue may not be necessary. Member states are being asked to consider this package of measures and safeguards to see if they meet their concerns around Israel’s continued involvement in Eurovision.
While the final decision remains uncertain, these changes underscore the EBU’s commitment to addressing concerns while maintaining the spirit of inclusivity that has long defined the competition. The upcoming General Assembly will be crucial in determining whether Israel can continue to compete on the world stage under these new voting rules.
