Greece Brings Back National Final for Eurovision 2025 After 22 Years: A New Era of Musical Democracy
After more than two decades of internal selections, Greece is making a bold return to its roots. The Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation (ERT) has officially announced the reintroduction of an open national final to choose the country’s representative for Eurovision 2025. This move marks a significant shift in how Greece selects its Eurovision contestant, giving both artists and the public a voice in what is shaping up to be a historic moment for the nation’s participation in the contest.
A National Decision, 22 Years in the Making
The announcement came from Katerina Kaskanioti, ERT’s CEO, during an exciting programme reveal that left Greek Eurovision fans buzzing with anticipation. The last time Greece held a national final that welcomed public participation was way back in 2003. For many, this return to form is not just a nostalgic nod to the past, but a clear step forward in reigniting national passion for the contest.
For years, Greece relied on internal selections, often causing heated debates among fans who felt disconnected from the process. Now, with this new national final, the public will once again have a say in who flies the Greek flag at the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel, Switzerland.
“Given the tremendous interest from numerous artists and the enthusiasm surrounding Eurovision in Greece, we felt the time was right to bring back a national final”, Kaskanioti explained. “This decision allows all artists, regardless of their background or affiliation with major record labels, the opportunity to compete on an equal platform.”
A Long-Awaited Comeback for Greek Eurovision Fans
This news couldn’t have come at a better time for Greek Eurovision enthusiasts, who have long advocated for a more transparent and inclusive selection process. The internal selections of recent years have been met with mixed reactions, often leaving fans questioning the decisions behind closed doors. Many believed this method stifled the country’s creative potential and limited the diversity of music being showcased on the Eurovision stage.
By bringing back a national final, ERT not only answers those concerns but also sets the stage for a highly competitive and exciting selection process, one that promises to engage the public in ways that haven’t been seen in over two decades. Artists across Greece are now encouraged to submit their entries, and the Greek public will ultimately decide who will represent them in Basel.
From Controversy to Clarity
Recently, Greece’s Eurovision journey has not been without its fair share of turbulence. Fans and critics alike have voiced their frustrations over direct artist assignments, which often led to controversies about fairness and transparency. By reintroducing a national final, ERT aims to restore faith in the selection process and ensure that the chosen artist is truly representative of what the Greek public wants to see and hear on the Eurovision stage.
«The open national final is our way of honouring the legacy of the contest and giving the people the power to choose their champion,» Kaskanioti stated. «This approach allows for an authentic connection between the artists and their audience, creating a genuine moment of unity before we send our talent to compete on the international stage.»
What Comes Next?
Details about the format, submission deadlines, and the official voting process will be unveiled in the coming months. But one thing is certain: the return of the national final has sparked a wave of excitement across the country. Fans can now look forward to a diverse range of songs and performances, offering a snapshot of Greece’s vibrant music scene.
As artists begin preparing their entries, speculation is already mounting over which familiar faces from Greek music might throw their hat into the ring. Whether it’s established stars or emerging talents, the road to Eurovision 2025 promises to be a thrilling one.
For Greece, Eurovision has always been more than just a song contest – it’s an annual celebration of music, culture, and identity. By reintroducing a national final, ERT is ensuring that this celebration remains in the hands of the people, making Greece’s journey to Basel one to watch.
Source: Zappit
