The European Broadcasting Union on Wednesday announced a rule change banning countries experiencing armed conflicts, sensitive geopolitical situations, or any other issues affecting their internal security and safety from hosting the Eurovision Song Contest.

The EBU disclosed this in a statement after Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Iceland boycotted the 2026 edition in Vienna, Austria, stating that they won’t take part alongside Israel, in protest against their war in Gaza, however triggered by an attack by Hamas on October 7, 2023.

The yearly contest, a co-production of public broadcasters belonging to the EBU, which is traditionally hosted by the broadcaster from the country whose contestant won the previous edition, also announced in July that Canada would join the main contest, following Australia’s participation in 2015.

The organisers said under the new rules, the winning broadcaster will automatically be ineligible to host the contest if an armed conflict, a sensitive geopolitical situation, or any other situation materially affects the security, safety or stability of their state or immediate region.”

The EBU also stated that it is considering establishing an independent security assessment body to determine whether a winning country can host the event safely.

It explained that, in potentially difficult situations outside armed conflict, the independent body will assess the winning country to help the EBU determine if the country can safely host the contest.

It stated that if the winning member is ruled ineligible to host, the EBU will identify an alternative host broadcaster to “assume all rights, obligations and liabilities associated with hosting the contest”, and that the broadcaster will not be required to stage the event on behalf of another member.

The rule change, following feedback from participating broadcasters, also increases the minimum age for artistes from 16 to 18.

The Eurovision Song Contest director, Martin Green, said, “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.”

Ukraine won the 2022 edition but was unable to host it because of Russia’s invasion. The event was instead held in Liverpool, England. The 2027 edition is billed for Bulgaria after singer Dara won for the country in May 2026, while Israel came second, just like it did in 2025.