What new hosting restrictions did the European Broadcasting Union announce for the Eurovision Song Contest, what prompted these changes amid the ongoing Israel Gaza conflict, and what other rule updates — including the raised minimum age for artists and the live vocals requiremen

What prompted the changes: the Israel-Gaza context

The rule was a direct response to the controversy surrounding Israel's participation in the 2025 and 2026 contests amid the ongoing Israel-Gaza war. In December 2025, the EBU granted Israel permission to compete in the 2026 event, prompting Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia to withdraw in protest .

Although Israel did not win the 2026 contest, the scenario of a country actively involved in armed conflict winning and then being expected to host crystallized the need for a clear, preemptive policy. The EBU stated the change was made after "feedback from participating broadcasters" and was designed to ensure the contest "provides a safe and welcoming environment" . The new rule would also apply to other conflict-affected nations — Ukraine, which won in 2022 and could not host due to Russia's invasion, was also cited as a precedent the rule formalizes .

Other rule changes introduced alongside the hosting policy

• Minimum age raised from 16 to 18 — Artists must now be at least 18 years old on the day of their first rehearsal. The EBU said this was part of an effort to "strengthen safeguarding and protect younger artists from the pressures associated with competing" .
• Stricter live vocals requirement — The EBU clarified its Audio Rules to remove ambiguity. The lead singer(s) must perform the main melody live. Backing tracks and pre-recorded elements remain permitted, but they "cannot replace or unduly assist the live vocal performance." The lead vocal must be the sole element carrying the main melody .
• Host selection process clarified — When the winning country is ineligible, the rules now explicitly outline the process for choosing an alternative host broadcaster .