Key Highlights
- The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) announces significant voting rule changes for the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest.
- New rules focus on neutrality and transparency, with tighter enforcement of existing guidelines.
- Broadcaster promotion restrictions are introduced to prevent undue influence from external parties.
- Viewer votes will be reduced, while professional juries return to semi-finals for the first time since 2022.
New Voting Rules for Eurovision 2026: Strengthening Transparency and Neutrality
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has unveiled significant changes to the voting rules for next year’s Eurovision Song Contest, scheduled to take place in Vienna from May 12-16. These new measures are aimed at enhancing trust, transparency, and audience engagement while maintaining the contest’s integrity.
Enhancing Trust and Neutrality
Martin Green, Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, emphasized that neutrality and integrity are “of paramount importance.” He stated, “The contest should remain a neutral space and must not be instrumentalised.” The EBU is taking clear and decisive steps to ensure these principles are upheld. One key change involves tightening enforcement of existing rules on lyrics and staging. Broadcasters will also be reminded of their responsibility to uphold the contest’s values.
Restrictions on Promotion
To address concerns about external attempts to influence the result, the EBU is updating its Voting Instructions and Code of Conduct. While appropriate promotion of artists and songs will continue to be allowed, the revised rules discourage “disproportionate promotion campaigns,” particularly those supported by governments or state agencies. Broadcasters are prohibited from engaging in, facilitating, or contributing to such third-party campaigns that could affect the outcome of the vote.
Reduced Viewer Votes with Jury Return
In an effort to distribute support more evenly among entries, the EBU is reducing the maximum number of votes per payment method (online, SMS, and phone) from 20 to 10. Additionally, professional juries will return to the semi-finals for the first time since 2022, restoring a 50/50 split between jury and audience voting in those shows. Each jury will now consist of seven members with a wider range of backgrounds, including music journalists, critics, teachers, choreographers, stage directors, and industry figures.
Technical Safeguards
Alongside these rule changes, the EBU is expanding security systems that detect and block fraudulent or coordinated voting activity. The organization will also strengthen monitoring of suspicious patterns in the televote to ensure every vote counts. Green stated, “These measures are intended to keep the focus where it belongs – on music, creativity, and connection.”
Impact and Future Implications
All updates have been approved by the Eurovision Song Contest’s Reference Group, representing participating broadcasters. Their impact will be monitored after the 2026 contest and could inform further changes. Ireland’s participation in next year’s contest remains unresolved, with Israel’s participation still under discussion.
The EBU has scheduled talks on this issue for their Executive Board’s ordinary Winter General Assembly in December. RTÉ spokesperson added, “Events in the Middle East are unfolding day by day, and we will continue to monitor the situation closely.”
As the full list of participating countries is due to be announced before Christmas, fans can look forward to a more transparent and engaging contest experience. These changes underscore the EBU’s commitment to maintaining the integrity and spirit of Eurovision while ensuring it remains an authentic celebration of music and unity.
