Greek Government Calls for Public Vote to Choose Eurovision 2025 Representative

In a decisive move following the controversial selection of Marina Satti for Eurovision 2024, the Greek government has proposed that the public, rather than a committee, choose the country’s next Eurovision representative for 2025. This comes in response to both the disappointing result and a high-profile incident involving Satti, as reported by the Greek webpage, EurovisionFun.

A Disappointing Outcome and Embarrassing Incident

Marina Satti, selected through an internal process by Greek broadcaster ERT, represented Greece at Eurovision 2024 in Malmö with her song «Zari» («Dice»). Despite high expectations for a top 10 finish, she placed 11th in the final. The situation worsened during the post-semi-final press conference, where Satti was caught yawning and appearing to fall asleep while Israel’s representative, Eden Golan, was speaking. This incident led to swift condemnation from the Greek government.

«The behaviour was individual and does not reflect the political positions of the Greek government. When a representative is chosen to perform on behalf of the country, especially funded by Greek taxpayers, they must uphold a standard of decorum and represent the nation with dignity. Eurovision aims to unite through music,» the government stated.

A Shift Towards Public Involvement

In light of these events, the Greek government has suggested to ERT that a public selection process be used to choose the 2025 Eurovision representative. According to the Greek newspaper VIMA, the proposal includes holding a national final to allow the public to vote for their favourite artist and song.

The last time Greece held a national final was in 2017 when Demy was internally selected to represent the country, and the public chose her song «This Is Love» from three options. Before that, in 2015, the national final Eurosong 2015 saw Maria Elena Kyriakou win with «One Last Breath,» finishing 19th in the Eurovision final.

Moving Forward with Eurovision 2025

The Greek broadcaster ERT now has a prime opportunity to organise a public selection process, leveraging Eurovision’s immense popularity in Greece and Europe. Despite the controversy, Marina Satti remained popular with the audience and achieved a respectable result. A national final could attract significant interest and participation from a wide array of Greek artists.

Although Greece has not yet confirmed its participation in Eurovision 2025, it is expected to continue its long-standing tradition. The exact method of selection will depend on the new leadership at ERT, including the forthcoming CEO and president.

Greece’s Eurovision Journey

Greece joined Eurovision in 1974 and has participated 44 times. The country achieved its best result in 2005 when Helena Paparizou won with «My Number One.» Eurovision 2025 will mark Greece’s 45th appearance, a milestone that brings both hope and expectation for a successful future in the competition.