Drama: Eurovision prepares to change the voting system
According to reports, in the next Eurovision you will no longer be able to vote for only one country, but will be forced to distribute your vote among at least three countries.
Eurovision is preparing for a dramatic shift in its voting system in an attempt to reduce political and coordinated voting, as reported by Deadline. According to the documents, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has sent participating broadcasters a plan for new rules for Eurovision 2027: instead of up to 10 votes via phone, text, or online, the process will move to an online-only system where each voter must select three songs.
This voting system likely draws inspiration from the method to be introduced at the first Eurovision Asia, scheduled for November 14, 2026. At that event, viewers will be able to vote via an official app regardless of their country of residence. To ensure votes are counted, each voter must distribute their support among at least three different songs, making it impossible to concentrate all votes on a single contestant. Additionally, users will be able to purchase ten extra votes for a fee, which must also be split among at least three entries.
In a letter from the EBU, it is stated that voting based on political motives has become a significant concern. The context is clear: in 2025, intense criticism arose after the Israeli government encouraged multiple votes for their contestant. Although Yuval Raphael finished only 15th in the jury vote, the song "New Day Will Rise" jumped to second place after the audience vote was calculated.
At the same time, the EBU announced another new rule this week, which effectively removes the possibility of hosting the contest in Israel or Ukraine if either wins. Under the new regulations, a winning broadcaster will be automatically disqualified from hosting if an armed conflict, sensitive geopolitical situation, or any other factor materially affects security or stability in the country or its immediate region.
"Eurovision is a contest that is constantly evolving, and our annual review of the rules is an important part of maintaining a fair, transparent, and consistent contest for all participants, including the millions who take part in the event around the world," said Martin Green, Eurovision Director.
This week it was also confirmed that the city of Burgas, Bulgaria, will host the 71st Eurovision contest in May 2027. The live broadcasts will take place via the host broadcaster BNT on May 11, 13, and 15. This will be the first time Eurovision is held in Bulgaria, following the victory of the Bulgarian artist Dara this year. As you may recall, we finished in second place thanks to Noam Batan and the song "Michelle".
