In Belgium, 2 networks operate as national broadcasters:
- RTBF – French-speaking Community of Belgium
- VRT – Flemish Community of Belgium
The two broadcasters rotate selection for the Eurovision Song Contest each year.
For example, in the years 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2022, 2024 and 2026, it was RTBF’s responsibility to lead Eurovision participation. Meanwhile, in the years 2014, 2016, 2018, 2020 (and 2021, due to the fact that Eurovision was canceled), 2023, and 2025, it was VRT’s turn.
The Conflict: Should Belgium Compete in Eurovision 2027?
Therefore, VRT will lead the selection process for the country for Eurovision 2027.
Previously, it was reported that VRT has been granted a deadline extension to decide on Belgium’s participation in Eurovision 2027. VRT stated that it encourages the EBU to hold a vote to determine Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2027 and to define the eligibility criteria for participating in Eurovision. However, the EBU has already ruled out such a vote.
A spokesperson for VRT spoke to De Morgen and said:
We are in dialogue with the EBU regarding the concerns we previously raised. Those discussions are still ongoing
The Decision
VRT has finally confirmed Belgium will compete in Eurovision 2027
Frederik Delaplace, CEO of VRT commneted:
We did well to put a lot of pressure on the EBU to make changes possible. We have received a clear commitment from the EBU leadership that changes will be felt.
VRT has noticed in recent weeks that the EBU is now taking its members’ concerns seriously and is working on the future of the Song Contest
In its statement, VRT highlights the involvement of EBU’s commitment to implement changes in the contest rules, as well as taking feedback from national broadcasters.
VRT mentions the following considerations leading them to avoid of withdrawal:
- Moroccanoil withdrawing as the Eurovision Song Contest main sponsor
- Changes in the voting system
- Updated participation rules
- Establishment of new rules regarding host country eligibility
Noel Curran, Director General of the EBU, added:
We have listened to the concerns of our members and recognized that fundamental changes were needed.We appreciate that VRT acknowledges this movement and remains involved
In addition, unlike the Eurovision 2023 and 2025 editions, VRT won’t organize a national selection.
Instead, VRT will opt to select the artist and the song internally.
The main reason is the relatively late participation announcement.
Essyla represented Belgium in Eurovision 2026.
She performed “Dancing On The Ice” and ended in21st place in the final:
Eurovision 2027 will be held in Burgas, Bulgaria on May 11th, 13th, 15th, 2027
