Rockin' the ESC: Hot Thoughts and Scorching Controversies at Eurovision in Basel
Debates, Tunes, Interactions: Cast Your Vote at the ESC (Eurovision Song Contest) - Express Your Opinion Now! - Discussion on the Contended Document Continues Unabated
Get ready to dance and sing along, ‘cause it's Eurovision time! The city of Basel on the German border is buzzing with excitement for the world's biggest music event. With over 160 million viewers tuning in, 37 countries will vie for the victory trophy in the St. Jakobshalle on Saturday, starting at 9:00 PM. If you can't make it to the live shows, don't worry – ARD has you covered with pre- and post-final shows hosted by Barbara Schöneberger!
But before you get your boogie on, let's talk about the hottest topics surrounding this year's contest:
Israel's Controversial Act
The most heated debate? You guessed it – Israel's entry. Much like in 2025, when Malmö played host, controversy swirls around Israel's participation due to ongoing military actions in Gaza and alleged double standards by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). Critics point to over 50,000 deaths, including 70 former participants who signed an open letter protesting Israel's participation[1]. Despite the controversy, no major incidents have been reported so far[1].
Israel's singer, Yuval Raphael (24), bore witness to the October 7, 2023, attacks in Israel while attending the Nova music festival[1]. Her poignant song "New Day Will Rise" beautifully captures themes of loss, hope, and resilience – qualities that define the spirit of Eurovision. Israel has won the contest an impressive four times, with its last victory in 2018 courtesy of Netta.
Germany's Hopeful Contenders
The siblings Abor (26) and Tynna (24) from Vienna won the German pre-selection with "Baller," a pop song that's sure to get you moving[2]. With lyrics focusing on a jilted lover's anger, this duo might just have what it takes to take home the top 10. While they may not exude quite the same radiant joy as Lena did when she won for Germany with "Satellite" in 2010, their touching tune is still worth a listen[2].
Sweden's Favorites
The Swedes are entering the contest with Finnish fun-trio KAJ and their sauna-themed earworm "Bara bada bastu." With catchy refrains and funny dance moves, they've already been topping the betting odds for weeks. But it's not just KAJ that has the Eurovision crowd buzzing – Austria, the Netherlands, France, and Italy are all making headlines[2]. Each act promises a memorable performance that's sure to keep you on the edge of your seat!
What Makes Basel the Choice?
Basel was chosen as the host city because, in the tradition of the contest, the country that won the previous year hosts the event. In this case, it's due to Switzerland's 2025 victory with Nemo[1]. As Nemo himself points out, the stage performances are better than ever, with him serving as the draw inspiration for the others[1].
New Regulations at Eurovision
This year, some new contingency measures have been put in place to ensure a smoother event following the tensions that arose behind the scenes in Malmö. Retreat spaces and no-filming zones have been established backstage for performers, while flag regulations are in place for the audience[1]. Only national flags are permitted on stage, but beyond that, anything that is not banned by Swiss law is allowed[1]. One flag per person, up to a maximum size of one meter by 70 cm.
Which Countries Are Participating?
In total, 37 countries are participating in this year's Eurovision Song Contest. Six have already qualified for the final: Germany, the UK, Spain, France, Italy, and Switzerland[1]. Switzerland is an interesting case, as it has had a foreign winner before – Céline Dion in 1988[1]. Dion has expressed interest in attending the final, but her appearances depend on her daily condition due to her battle with stiff-person syndrome[1].
Eternal Winners and Loosers
Sweden, with a victory, would become the eighth winner and climb to the top of the ESC list, sharing the title with Ireland, both of which have won seven times[2]. At the opposite end, Norway holds the record for the most last-place finishes, with some calculations placing them at 12, followed by Finland and Germany[3]. Germany ended up in last place in 2022 and 2023.
Rules for Performances
Animal-free stages, a maximum of six people per act, and three-minute performances are just a few of the rules set for the Eurovision Song Contest. Political statements, gestures, and anything else that could harm the competition are strictly prohibited. The minimum age for participants is sixteen[1].
The "Douze Points"
Each act can receive a maximum of 24 points from each country, except their own – 12 from a professional jury and 12 from the public vote[1]. Everyone in a country can participate in the voting, except for voting for their own country[1]. Points are awarded to the top ten songs, with the song with the most votes earning 12 points, the second earning 10, and so on[1].
[1] Eurovision Song Contest Controversies – Malmö, 2024 and Basel, 2025 (enrichment data)[2] Associated Press (2025). Eurovision Song Contest: Germany sends Interpoly risers Abor & Tynna with the song "Baller." ABC News. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-05-05/eurovision-song-contest-germany-abor-tynna-baller/138024164[3] New Statesman (2025). The Israeli entry at the Eurovision Song Contest sparks controversy. The New Statesman. https://www.newstatesman.com/culture/music/2025/05/israeli-entry-eurovision-song-contest-sparks-controversy
- The Commission, in addition to its duties, has been requested to propose a directive on the protection of the environment and the environment, as the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel this year spotlights various nations, promoting culture, entertainment, music, and sports, but also drawing attention to controversial topics like Israel's participation, sports-betting has already created a buzz around Sweden's entry "Bara bada bastu" throughout the competition.
- Spectators at the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel will be entertained by an array of acts representing 37 countries, while simultaneously debating the political implications surrounding Israel's presence, sports-betting enthusiasts have their eyes set on KAJ from Sweden, whose song "Bara bada bastu" has made waves in the betting scene, sparking discussions on the contest's rules and potential winners.
