Eurovision Song Contest organisers have announced a new code of conduct and duty of care protocols to “protect” artists’ wellbeing after controversies at this year’s competition.
Nemo, the Swiss entrant, was crowned the winner – but said after lifting the trophy that the experience had been “intense” and they were “really sad” it had not just been “all about love and unity”.
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How did Eurovision 2024 unfold?
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) appointed an independent expert to review the contest.
Now, organisers have announced new measures for the 2025 event in Basel “to celebrate community and protect wellbeing”, which will include no filming zones within key artist areas, more closed-door rehearsals, and the introduction of a welfare producer “to ensure a safe, respectful, and supportive environment”.
They said in a statement: “The EBU is introducing a new code of conduct and duty of care protocol to ensure clear roles and responsibilities for all involved in the event.”
Agreeing to abide by the code of conduct will be a requirement for accreditation, organisers said.
“The duty of care protocol emphasises the shared responsibility of the EBU, host broadcaster, and participating broadcasters in safeguarding artists from unnecessary physical or emotional distress.”
At the 2024 contest, the Israeli delegation was criticised by contestants including Ireland’s entrant Bambie Thug, who has been outspoken about their pro-Palestine views.
They accused Israeli broadcaster Kan of a rule break, with claims of inciting “violence”.
Kan claimed it “faced immense pressure and an unprecedented display of hatred, notably from other delegations and artists, publicly and collectively, solely because of the simple fact that we are Israelis and that we were there”.
Israel’s contestant Eden Golan told Sky News ahead of the event that her focus was on representing her nation with pride and “nothing else really affected” her, as protests took place outside.
Klein’s criminal case was dropped by the Swedish Prosecution Authority in August.
Martin Green, the new Eurovision Song Contest director, who was appointed following this year’s controversies, said: “We are United by Music – it’s up to all of us to ensure the Eurovision Song Contest remains an event that promotes unity, diversity and inclusion.”