The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has unveiled significant changes to the Eurovision Song Contest voting rules for 2026, aimed at strengthening trust, transparency and audience engagement. The new framework will apply when Vienna hosts the 70th contest on 12, 14 and 16 May next year.
Among the key changes, the maximum number of votes per payment method (online, SMS and phone) will be cut from 20 to 10. Professional juries will return to the semi-finals for the first time since 2022, restoring a 50/50 split between jury and audience voting. Jury panels will increase from five to seven members, with a wider range of professional backgrounds including music journalists, teachers, choreographers and industry figures. Each jury must include at least two members aged 18-25.
The EBU is also updating its Voting Instructions and Code of Conduct to address concerns about attempts to influence results from outside the competition. While appropriate promotion of artists and songs will continue, the revised rules discourage 'disproportionate promotion campaigns', particularly when supported by third parties such as governments or state agencies. Broadcasters and artists will not be permitted to engage in or facilitate third-party campaigns that could affect the vote outcome.
All jurors will be required to sign a formal declaration confirming independent and impartial voting, and will be barred from coordinating with other jurors or posting preferences on social media before voting concludes. The EBU will also expand security systems to detect and block fraudulent or coordinated voting activity.
Martin Green, Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, said the neutrality and integrity of the event were 'of paramount importance' and that the EBU was taking 'clear and decisive steps to ensure the contest remains a celebration of music and unity'. He added that enforcement of existing rules on lyrics and staging would also be tightened.
Israel's participation in the 2026 contest remains unresolved, with the EBU stating the issue will be discussed at the Executive Board's Winter General Assembly in December. RTÉ has previously said Ireland would not take part if Israel participates, and will make a final decision once the EBU confirms its position.
