A Eurovision Update for 2023: Participating Nations and Host Details
The Eurovision Song Contest for 2023 brings together 37 countries, organized by the European Broadcasting Union and staged in Liverpool from May 9 to May 13. The event bathes in a global spotlight, with audiences in Canada, the United States, and around the world tuning in to discover the next musical act to carry the contest forward.
In an official release, the organizers confirmed a diverse lineup of participating nations listed in alphabetical order. Albania, Germany, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Cyprus, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Slovenia, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Greece, Ireland, Iceland, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Moldova, Norway, and the Netherlands will be present. The list also includes Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Sweden, Switzerland, and Ukraine, which is set to be the reigning champion this year. The host nation, the United Kingdom, will welcome everyone for the ninth time as part of the festival’s ongoing tradition.
Last year’s contest in Turin featured fewer participating countries than in 2023, with three states withdrawing due to cost concerns. Montenegro, Bulgaria, and North Macedonia cited high participation costs as a barrier to entry, according to regional broadcasters RTCG, MRT, and BNT. Their absence reduces the field by three and mirrors broader discussions about funding and the logistical demands of the event.
This year also reflects shifting dynamics as several nations adjusted their contributions to compensate for Russia’s ongoing absence amid the Ukrainian conflict. The changes are part of a broader recalibration of the contest budget and participation rules in response to evolving regional realities, ensuring the event remains financially viable while maintaining its universal appeal.
In a message from the BBC Eurovision team, the broadcaster’s director general emphasized a sense of mission beyond mere competition. They described Eurovision as a platform that honors Ukrainian culture and resilience while showcasing British creativity to a global audience. The statement underscored a commitment to presenting the event with a respectful nod to Ukraine’s central role this season and to sustaining an inclusive, entertaining experience for viewers worldwide.
Additionally, the contest leadership highlighted the near-term outlook for next year as one that promises something truly special. The managing director spoke about ongoing collaborations with the BBC to ensure that hundreds of millions of viewers enjoy the best possible experience, with a clear focus on making the event memorable for fans across North America and Europe alike. Ukraine’s influence remains a focal point as attention turns toward the next edition and the ways in which the competition can celebrate diverse musical voices while maintaining its signature excitement.
Spain follows a distinct pathway for selecting its entrant this season. The national audience will determine Spain’s nominee through Benidorm Fest, following the same format used last year with Chanel. In a forthcoming broadcast, a special program on TVE will present the group of hopefuls who will compete to represent the country at Eurovision, creating anticipation and engagement across the country as the selection unfolds on a night-to-night basis. This process epitomizes the blend of national pride and international ambition that characterizes Eurovision and keeps fans glued to the screens as the field narrows toward a dramatic finale.