There has been ongoing discussion about who should host the next Eurovision Song Contest, and whether Ukraine will be the stage for the event. The conversation has featured high profile voices, including Jamala, the Ukrainian artist who won the 2016 edition. Speaking at a public event in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, she shared a personal perspective on the matter. As a representative of Ukraine, she expressed sadness that a hopeful moment for her country might be delayed or denied, emphasizing how much the opportunity to participate and celebrate music means to her community.
She pointed out that the Eurovision Song Contest is meant to be held in a location where participants and audiences can feel safe. Her concern centers on safety and the ability of the event to proceed without threats, while recognizing the broader question of peace in Ukraine and what this means for a potential 2023 edition. The comments came from an artist who has personal experience with displacement, having left Ukraine with her child due to the ongoing conflict, and who continues to follow events in her homeland from afar.
Jamala was not alone in voicing disagreement with the EBU on the hosting decision. Ukraine produced a formal letter this week, endorsed by the Minister of Culture and Information and signatories including other prominent figures such as Ruslana, the 2004 winner, and the director of the national broadcaster. The letter called for a reconsideration of the 2023 hosting plan and urged the EBU to explore alternatives that would ensure a fair and safe celebration of the contest while respecting Ukraine’s victory earlier this year with Kalush Orchestra.
The Ukrainian authorities argued that the decision was issued without sufficient opportunity for dialogue. They asserted that there were solid grounds to continue negotiations and to reach a consensus that would satisfy all parties involved. Ukraine contends that the country met every condition required to host the event, including safety assurances and feasible venue options, and believes there are credible reasons to keep exploring a path toward hosting in Ukraine.
Advocates for Ukraine maintain that hosting Eurovision in 2023 would send a powerful message of resilience and solidarity to supporters around the world. They emphasized the country’s readiness to fulfill commitments and highlighted prior statements to the EBU about safety standards and venue plans. The aim is to ensure the event can proceed with confidence in safety and accessibility for participants, fans, and media from Canada, the United States, and beyond.
In related commentary, the political dimension of the debate was acknowledged. The possibility of Ukraine hosting the contest is seen by many as a symbol of national determination and a beacon for those who stand with Ukraine amid ongoing tensions. Supporters argue that a successful hosting would reinforce international unity and provide an opportunity to showcase Ukrainian culture on a global stage.
UK leadership’s stance on Ukraine’s hosting prospects
Following a recent official visit to the Ukrainian capital, a senior UK government figure expressed strong support for Ukraine taking charge of the next edition. The statement underscored respect for Ukraine’s victory and the desire to see the event hosted in Kyiv or another Ukrainian city rather than in the United Kingdom. The official acknowledged the anniversary of Ukraine’s triumph while noting that the winning team had earned the right to determine the event’s setting, and the remarks reflected a general wish to honor that achievement while considering safety and logistics for all involved.
After completing the visit to Kyiv, discussions continued about feasible arrangements to host Eurovision in Ukraine. The tone of the commentary balanced admiration for Ukraine’s musical achievement with practical considerations about where the contest could be staged and how to ensure its smooth execution. The conversations highlighted the importance of engaging with the European Broadcasting Union to reach a decision that supports the integrity and spirit of Eurovision while safeguarding participants from risk.