Can non-Eurovision countries vote and how is the vote counted?
For the first time, this year the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) will allow the vote of viewers from States that do not compete in the contest.
This year there will be an important change in Eurovision. And it is that the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) will allow viewers from countries not participating in the festival to vote.
It is the first time that this is possible in the history of the contest, and the votes for the favorites will be cast over the internet, completely online.
These will be added up and converted into points with the same weight as those issued by a participating country, a system that has been in use for voting during the semi-finals.
For its part, the public of the participating countries can vote by SMS, telephone, or through the application Eurovision Song Contest.
Worldwide popularity
“Throughout its 67-year history the Eurovision Song Contest has constantly evolved to remain relevant and exciting. These changes acknowledge the immense popularity of the show by giving more power to the audience of the world’s largest live music event,” said Martín Österdahl back in November when the change was announced.
The European Broadcasting Network may be trying to expand the audience of the show and by allowing voters from around the world, more people may be enticed to tune in. "
“In 2023 only Eurovision Song Contest viewers will decide which countries make it to the Grand Final and, reflecting the global impact of the event, everyone watching the show, wherever they live in the world, can cast their votes for their favourite songs,” added Österdahl.