In an official press release, the EBU has announced changes to the Eurovision Song Contest rules.
The changes will apply from the 2027 edition:
1. New Rules Triggered by Geopolitical Conflicts
- Under the updated regulations, a winning broadcaster will automatically become ineligible to host the Contest if an armed conflict, a sensitive geopolitical situation, or any other event materially compromises the security, safety, or stability of their country or region.
- To enforce this, the EBU reserves the right to commission an independent security assessment of the winner’s region.
- Based on the findings, the EBU and the Eurovision Reference Group will decide whether the winning member can safely host. If deemed unable, an alternative Host Broadcaster will be selected to assume full rights, production liabilities, and organizational responsibility for staging the event independently, rather than hosting on behalf of the original winner.
2. Stricter Live Vocal Requirements
- The EBU has clarified its Audio Rules to eliminate ambiguity for broadcasters, producers, and songwriters, reinforcing the integrity of live performances.
- While backing tracks and pre-recorded elements remain permitted within standard guidelines, the core principle is now explicitly and strictly enforced: the Lead Singer(s) must perform the main melody live. Pre-recorded vocals cannot replace, double, or unduly assist the primary live vocal performance, ensuring audiences hear authentic live lead vocals for every entry.
3. Minimum Age Limit Starting in 2027
- Beginning with the 2027 Contest, the minimum age requirement for competing artists will increase from 16 to 18 years old on the day of their first rehearsal.
- This adjustment builds on ongoing safeguarding initiatives designed to protect younger performers from the intense public and psychological pressures of the international stage.
The Eurovision Reference Group (the governmental body) made the decisions. The updates have been made following feedback from participating broadcasters after Vienna 2026.
The new rules aim to cover the following main topics: protecting the participants, adding clarity to the rules, and ensuring the contest will be held in the safest space.
Martin Green, the Eurovision Song Contest Director, commented:
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. 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.
You can find the full rulebook of Eurovision 2027 here
Eurovision 2027 will be held in Bulgaria in May 2027