The new rules, among other things, prohibit filming behind the scenes, more rehearsals will be held behind closed doors, and the artists will receive a schedule that allows for more rest, writes EBU in a press release.
"In 2024, 163 million viewers watched ESC on TV. Our digital platforms also experienced exponential growth. The successes reinforce the need to continuously adapt the show to meet the changing demands from both participants and the audience," says Martin Green, the new ESC director.
All participants in Eurovision, both artists and media, must approve the code of conduct to participate. Furthermore, a person responsible for the well-being of the participants will be appointed to ensure a "safe, respectful, and supportive environment".
The new rules are being introduced after several controversies that occurred during Eurovision in Malmö this year. Among other things, Joost Klein from the Netherlands was disqualified just hours before the final on May 11, following an incident with a female camera operator.
