The Russian communications watchdog Roskomnadzor has warned that it may block broadcasts of the Eurovision Song Contest in Russia if the event features material deemed to promote unconventional sexual relations. The warning came from the agency after a briefing by its press service and was reported by TASS as the source of the information.
Roskomnadzor cited Russian law on media and internet content that restricts the distribution of information promoting nontraditional sexual relations. The agency stressed that violations can lead to limits on access to information resources and may carry administrative liability under Article 6.21 of the Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation. The implication is that content linked to LGBT themes could trigger enforcement actions in Russia, including potential blocking measures for materials related to the Eurovision event.
In related Eurovision history, the Kalush Orchestra, a Ukrainian hip hop group, won the Eurovision Song Contest in 2022 with the track Stefania. The European Broadcasting Union noted that Ukraine faced safety concerns for participants, which contributed to the decision to relocate the live event to England for that edition. This context underscores the ongoing geopolitical and logistical complexities surrounding the competition in recent years, including concerns about participant safety and event location choices that frame how the contest is produced and distributed across Europe and beyond.
Meanwhile, there have been broader announcements about the Eurovision final’s distribution. It has been reported that the final would be shown in British cinemas for the first time, signaling growing multimedia and venue-based viewing options for fans. This trend highlights how Eurovision participation and its broadcasts continue to evolve in response to audience demand and the shifting landscape of how audiences access live performances, whether through traditional television, streaming platforms, or cinematic premieres across different countries.