Overview
- The European Broadcasting Union finalized a field of 35 countries for Vienna, the smallest lineup in more than two decades, with Bulgaria, Romania and Moldova returning.
- Public broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Iceland will not take part in protest at Israel’s inclusion.
- Israel’s participation proceeded after an early-December EBU meeting declined to put the issue to a vote and approved rule changes intended to curb government influence over promotional campaigns.
- ORF outlined plans for the May shows, with about 90,000 tickets offered and a registration deadline on December 18, heightened security at the Wiener Stadthalle, and live events scheduled for May 12, 14 and 16.
- ORF said it will not mask audience reactions or add artificial applause, as symbolic actions continue, including Swiss 2024 winner Nemo returning their trophy in protest.