Eurovision Song Contest 2025 new code of conduct

Photo Credit: Corinne Cumming / EBU

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has issued a new code of conduct for backstage staff and performers after the controversial Eurovision 2024 performance.

Last year’s Eurovision was fraught with problems backstage, with the voting system, and protests over Israel’s participation in the song contest. A police investigation into an incident involving the Dutch contestant Joost Klein let to his disqualification from the contest.

Klein was accused of making a threatening movement towards a female camera operator. The incident happened after his performance in the second semi-final, while he was leaving the stage. The allegations include Klein hitting the camera operator’s camera, causing her to fall and suffer minor injuries. Klein stated he was not supposed to be filmed while exiting the stage, which is why he reacted the way he did.

The EBU suspended Klein from rehearsals and eventually disqualified him from participating in the Grand Final—citing his behavior toward the camera operator. Swedish police investigated the incident, but a Swedish prosecutor later dropped the investigation due to a lack of evidence that the altercation was “intended to cause serious fear or threat.” Klein has apologized, but the incident has led to a new code of conduct for everyone participating in Eurovision going forward.

For Eurovision 2025, a Welfare Producer will be on hand to look after artists and staff. The EBU has also optimized the rehearsal schedule to give artists more downtime and introduced ‘no-filming zones’ which stem from the issues with Joost Klein last year.

“For the first time, agreeing to abide by the code of conduct will be a requirement for accrediation to the event, signaling EBU’s commitment to fostering a respectful and supportive environment,” the EBU says. “The Duty of Care protocol emphasizes the shared responsibility of the EBU, Host Broadcaster, and Participating Broadcasters in safeguarding artists from unnecessary physical or emotional distress.”

New measures include no filming zones within key artist areas, more closed-door rehearsals, and an optimized rehearsal schedule to allow artists plenty of time to rest and enjoy the host city. These strategic changes have been approved by the event’s governing board, the ESC Reference Group following a comprehensive review of events in Malmö. The changes were made with consultations to all 37 participating broadcasters and other key stakeholders to ensure the continued success of the Eurovision Song Contest.