Eurovision 2024 Review: EBU Promises Action Amidst Controversy and Reforms

After a tumultuous Eurovision Song Contest marked by protests and a historic disqualification, the EBU vows changes.

The Eurovision Song Contest of 2024 will be remembered not only for its musical performances, but also for the controversies that surrounded it. Protests against Israel‘s participation and the unprecedented disqualification of Dutch artist Joost Klein were major talking points. Now, Jean Philip De Tender, the Deputy Director-General and Media Director for the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), has shed light on the findings of an independent review and outlined forthcoming changes.

Protests and Participation: Clarity Amidst Controversy

In an interview with Carolina Norén on Swedish radio station P4, De Tender addressed the criticisms and explained the EBU’s stance. He emphasized the necessity of clearer rules and better communication with participants:

“When Eurovision started nearly 70 years ago, our agreements with artists were just one page long. Today, they span hundreds of pages. We need to simplify and ensure that everyone involved in the event understands exactly what they are committing to,” De Tender stated.

Despite the protests, the EBU has decided not to change the rules regarding Israel’s participation. As long as the Israeli public broadcaster KAN remains a full and independent member of the EBU, Israel will continue to participate. De Tender reaffirmed that Eurovision is intended to be an apolitical event, akin to the Olympic Games.

Joost Klein’s Disqualification: A Step Towards Transparency

The disqualification of Joost Klein was another major incident during this year’s contest. De Tender acknowledged the need for more transparent and straightforward rules to prevent such situations in the future. While he refrained from commenting directly on Klein’s situation, he noted the importance of clear communication and understanding of the rules among all participants.

“There’s now so much responsibility with the Executive Supervisor, new responsibilities that have come to be added to the task, that we thought it’s better that we divide the roles and the responsibilities,” De Tender explained. As a result, Martin Österdahl will remain as Executive Supervisor, but a new ESC Director will be appointed to share the workload.

Looking Forward: Ensuring Participation and Unity

The review also highlighted the necessity of addressing broadcasters’ concerns, especially those like the Netherlands’ AVROTROS, which has expressed doubts about future participation. De Tender confirmed that no broadcaster has yet withdrawn and that decisions about participation are due by the end of September. He remains optimistic, stating, “I am confident we will have a great show in Switzerland next year with plenty of participants.”

A Message to Fans and Future Participants

The EBU is also keen to engage more deeply with fans, influencers, and media to build broader engagement and ensure the event’s success. De Tender hinted at new initiatives to strengthen ties with these groups but did not provide details.

Towards a Brighter, More Transparent Eurovision

As the EBU moves forward with these reforms, the focus is on clarity, transparency, and unity. The aim is to preserve Eurovision as a beloved, apolitical celebration of music and culture.

When asked about the possibility of Joost Klein returning for Eurovision 2025, De Tender left the decision to AVROTROS but saw no reason for exclusion if all rules were followed.

As the preparations for Eurovision 2025 in Switzerland begin, the EBU’s commitment to improvement is clear. Fans and participants alike can look forward to a contest that honours its traditions while embracing necessary changes.

Sources: Sveriges Radio/Eurovoix