Smaller Broadcasters Quit Eurovision Over Rising Costs

14 Nov 2022  |  AdRankOne  |  BlastFM Limited  |   0
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Several nations—like Montene­gro, North Macedonia, and Bulgaria—have withdrawn from Eurovision, citing increased registration fees, accommodation costs, and economic pressures.
The decision to move the *2023 Eurovision Song Contest to Britain was based on the same reason that the continent’s public 2022 vote went overwhelmingly to Ukraine in the first place; the war inflicted upon that country by Vladimir Putin.

Summary: The Eurovision Song Contest has become so expensive that smaller countries and broadcasters are being forced to step away. Even host nations are struggling with the financial burden, raising questions about the future of the competition.

Costs Keep Rising

Eurovision is the world’s biggest music contest, but running it is far from cheap. Reports show that hosting can cost anywhere between €30 million and €60 million. In 2017, Ukraine spent almost €40 million, while Denmark’s costs in 2014 reached €44 million.

Austria is already worried about the price tag of hosting Eurovision in 2026. Government officials warn that putting such a big bill on taxpayers will be difficult to justify.

Pressure on Smaller Broadcasters

Participation fees have also increased. Depending on the size of a country’s economy, broadcasters can pay anywhere from €120,000 to €200,000 just to enter. On top of this, there are costs for travel, staging, and promotion.

Because of these financial pressures, Montenegro and North Macedonia pulled out of Eurovision in 2023. Their broadcasters admitted that the contest was simply too expensive for their budgets.

EBU’s Response

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes Eurovision, has defended the rising costs. According to the EBU, higher expenses are linked to better production standards and increased security demands. They say they are working with broadcasters to find solutions.

The Most Expensive Eurovisions

2012 – Azerbaijan: €60 million+

2014 – Denmark: €44 million

2017 – Ukraine: €40 million

2019 – Israel: €30–€50 million (estimates vary)

2023 – United Kingdom (Liverpool): Around €30 million

These numbers show how the price of hosting Eurovision has continued to rise over the past two decades.

Why It Matters

When smaller countries leave the contest, Eurovision loses part of its identity. Fans argue that the charm of the show comes from the mix of big and small nations sharing one stage. If costs continue to rise, that diversity could disappear.

Looking Ahead

Experts warn that in the next 5–10 years, only the richest countries may be able to take part. Some suggestions include:

Lowering participation fees for smaller countries,

Sharing hosting costs with cities and sponsors,

Simplifying staging to reduce production expenses.

In short: Eurovision is no longer just a music contest — it has become a massive financial project. Without changes, more small countries could be forced out, threatening the spirit and inclusiveness that made Eurovision unique.


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