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CBC Gains Full EBU Membership, Eyes Eurovision Entry

6/27/2026

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Summary

CBC Joins EBU

CBC/Radio-Canada became a full member of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) after a vote at the general assembly in Prague.
The broadcaster had held associate EBU membership since 1950.
Full membership permits Canada to submit a Eurovision Song Contest entry, though CBC has not confirmed participation.
Prime Minister Justin Carney’s 2025 budget said the government is working with CBC to explore Eurovision participation.

Summary

Five Nations Boycott

Five nations refused to broadcast the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in protest of Israel’s Gaza actions.
Bulgaria’s 2026 win secured its hosting of the 2027 contest and eased EBU tensions.
Disputes over Israel’s participation have sparked debate about Eurovision’s long-term viability.
EU Migration Commissioner Magnus Brunner warned non-EU broadcasters they must meet obligations or face repercussions.

History

Historical Context

In 1993 the Eurovision Song Contest shifted to Millstreet, Ireland, where Niamh Kavanagh’s “In Your Eyes” secured Ireland’s second straight win and the event introduced a relegation system to accommodate new post-Soviet and post-Yugoslav entrants. Earlier that year Israel’s IBA selected Lehakat Shiru via a national final judged by seven regional juries, showing how expanding membership has repeatedly forced the EBU to revise rules.

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CBC Joins EBU

CBC/Radio-Canada became a full member of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) after a vote at the general assembly in Prague.
The broadcaster had held associate EBU membership since 1950.
Full membership permits Canada to submit a Eurovision Song Contest entry, though CBC has not confirmed participation.
Prime Minister Justin Carney’s 2025 budget said the government is working with CBC to explore Eurovision participation.

1 / 3