As Eurovision 2025 rehearsals near their end, the EBU has announced that its flag policy will remain in place. This came despite an appeal to the EBU from Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS.
“Constructive conversations” on flag policy had
Last month, the flag policy was announced for Eurovision 2025. Under the new rules, flags that do not abide by Swiss law will not be allowed into the arena. As well as this, only the flags of competing countries are allowed. As a result, this means the Pride flag – commonly seen at Eurovision – will not be seen.
Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS confirmed it would be appealing the decisions made by the EBU. In a statement, the channel said that the Pride flag was “not a political symbol”, thus allowing it in the competition.
However, following some “constructive conversations” with the EBU, AVROTROS confirmed to the ANP news agency the rule would not be reversed. While the broadcaster admitted they would have preferred to have the guidance changed, they recognised the short-notice the implementation would have. The statement read:
The EBU has chosen to maintain the current policy.
Although we consider this a missed opportunity, we – like the other 36 countries – respect the rules that now apply for this year.
We are now focusing on the connecting power of music in the belief that the dialogue about visibility and representation can best be conducted jointly and with an eye to the long term.
The story of Eurovision 2025 so far
Switzerland will be hosting the 69th edition of the competition following Nemo’s historic win at Eurovision 2024 in Malmö. A few weeks after their win, Reto Peritz, and Moritz Stadler, was announced as the Executive Producers, with the other roles revealed in July 2024.
Basel, Bern & Biel/Bienne, Geneva, and Zurich submitted bids to host next year’s competition, with Basel and Geneva being shortlisted as the final two cities. After the shortlist, it was revealed that Basel will host Eurovision 2025, at St. Jakobshalle with the shows taking place on May 13, 15 and 17.
What do you make of AVROTROS’ challenge to the flag policy? Do you think things will change in time? As always, please let us know what you think by getting involved in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow ‘That Eurovision Site’ on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Threads, tumblr, and Bluesky for more information about Eurovision 2025!
News Source: Ad.nl
Photo Credit: Sarah Louise Bennett / EBU
Giwrgos Oiko