The EBU has announced a big change to how voting will work in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023.
The countries that qualify from the two Semi-Finals, ten from each, will now be decided based on the votes cast by viewers alone, rather than a combination of a jury and public vote.
And, for the first time ever, those watching in countries not taking part will also be able to vote online. Their votes will be added together and carry the same weight as one participating country in both Semi-Finals and in the Grand Final.
Professional juries, made up of those working in the music industry, will continue to contribute to the result of the Grand Final along with viewers in each country taking part and those voting internationally.
Global impact of Eurovision
Martin Österdahl, the Eurovision Song Contest’s Executive Supervisor said: “Throughout its 67-year history the Eurovision Song Contest has constantly evolved to remain relevant and exciting. These changes acknowledge the immense popularity of the show by giving more power to the audience of the world’s largest live music event.
In 2023 only Eurovision Song Contest viewers will decide which countries make it to the Grand Final and, reflecting the global impact of the event, everyone watching the show, wherever they live in the world, can cast their votes for their favourite songs.
By also involving juries of music professionals in deciding the final result, all the songs in the Grand Final can be assessed on the broadest possible criteria. We can also maintain the tradition of travelling around Europe and Australia to collect points and ensure a thrilling voting sequence with the winner only revealed at the very end of the show.”
The small print
Audiences in all participating countries will still be able to vote by SMS, phone or via the Eurovision Song Contest app.
Those watching in the rest of the world will be able to vote via a secure online platform using a credit card from their country.
37 countries will compete to win the 67th Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool on 9, 11 and 13 May. 31 countries will compete for 20 places in the Grand Final alongside France, Germany, Italy, Spain, hosts the United Kingdom and 2022 winner Ukraine.