Kathmandu— The organizers of the Eurovision Song Contest announced Wednesday that countries engaged in “armed conflict” or facing significant geopolitical instability will be ineligible to host the event, a change impacting Israel and potentially other nations going forward. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) stated it will conduct security assessments to determine if a winning country can safely host, with an alternative host selected if necessary; however, countries still retain the right to compete in the contest. This decision follows increasing pressure on the EBU regarding Israel’s participation amid its ongoing conflict in Gaza and comes after several nations boycotted last year's competition.

Eurovision’s Evolution and Eligibility

The Eurovision Song Contest, launched in 1956, is co-produced by the EBU and member broadcasters, typically hosted by the winning country’s public broadcaster. Bulgaria is slated to host the 2026 contest after securing victory in May. While geographically focused on Europe, participation extends to any nation with broadcasting operations within the continent and EBU membership – Israel was the first non-European country to join in 1973. Ukraine won the competition in 2022 but was unable to host due to the war with Russia.

New Hosting Restrictions Explained

Under the newly announced rules, any nation embroiled in armed conflict or experiencing a “sensitive geopolitical situation” that compromises security and stability will be barred from hosting Eurovision. The EBU reserves the right to commission independent security assessments of potential host regions and consult with stakeholders before making a final decision. If a winning country is deemed unable to safely host, organizers will identify an alternative broadcaster to take on the responsibility.

Recent Boycotts and Protests

The contest has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years, particularly regarding Israel’s participation. Several countries – including the Netherlands, Slovenia, Spain, Iceland, and Ireland – announced boycotts of the 2026 competition if Israel was allowed to compete. These nations cited concerns over Israel's actions during its war on Gaza, with some accusing Eurovision organizers of hypocrisy given their decision to bar Russia following the invasion of Ukraine. Despite these protests, the 2024 contest proceeded in Vienna with 35 participating countries.

Responses and Future Participation

Israel has not yet publicly responded to the new hosting restrictions, having last hosted Eurovision in 2019. The nations that previously announced boycotts have so far remained silent regarding whether they will return to the competition under these revised rules; however, given their initial objections centered on Israel’s participation itself, a change in stance appears unlikely. Critics continue to point out what they see as inconsistency in the EBU's treatment of Russia and Israel.

Calls for Consistent Standards

Sven Kuhn von Burgsdorff, former European Union representative to the occupied West Bank and Gaza, argued that both Russia’s actions in Ukraine and Israel’s conduct towards Palestinians violate international law and human rights. He suggested that Israel should also be suspended from Eurovision as long as it maintains its occupation of Palestinian land. A letter signed by over 1,000 musicians and cultural workers similarly accused the EBU of hypocrisy for excluding Russia while allowing Israel to participate.

The EBU stated that these rule changes aim to ensure fairness, transparency, and a safe environment for all involved in the Eurovision Song Contest, but it remains to be seen how the new regulations will impact future competitions and participant nations.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.