Canada has been granted permission to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest, marking the first time a non-European nation will enter the competition. The decision, announced by the European Broadcasting Union on Tuesday, allows Canada to debut at the 2025 contest in Switzerland.
The move represents a significant expansion of the event’s geographic reach. Eurovision has traditionally been open to European Broadcasting Union members, including Australia which joined in 2015. Canada’s inclusion has been welcomed by UK broadcasters who see it as an opportunity to strengthen cultural ties.
A spokesperson for the BBC described the development as a “natural progression” for a contest that increasingly reflects global popular culture. ITV and Channel 4 also expressed support, citing the potential for increased viewership and creative exchange.
The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, which will select the nation’s entry, said it plans to involve both established and emerging artists. The decision is expected to boost Canada’s soft power reach across Europe and beyond.
Critics have questioned the precedent of admitting non-European countries, but the European Broadcasting Union defended the choice, noting Canada’s long-standing membership and active participation in other union activities.
