SRF the Swiss national broadcaster have confirmed Switzerland will participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023. As well as this, SRF have also confirmed an early timetable for their internal selection process, which begins August 25.
Switzerland rolls with internal selection for Eurovision 2023
Already the ‘off-season’ is shaping up to be very much on, with numerous confirmations ahead of the next Eurovision Song Contest in 2023. So far a total of 21 nations have declared interest in participation. Meanwhile Israel recently announced the first artist for next year in Noa Kirel. Now SRF, the national broadcaster of Switzerland have confirmed their participation, as well as revealing the selection process for Marius Bear’s successor.
Once more Switzerland will select their artist internally. Since 2019, this method has selected Luca Hänni, Gjon’s Tears and Marius Bear. So far this has produced three qualifications in a row and two top 5 placements. As well as this, Gjon’s Tears and ‘Tout ‘l’univers‘ achieved Switzerland’s best result since 1993 with third place in 2021.
A proven format
As mentioned, the process for selecting the 2023 artist will be the same successful method used since 2019. From August 25 until 10pm (CET) September 8, artists, producers and writers can submit their songs online to SRF. After the closing date, the entries will advance to the next stage and be assessed. This will follow a multi-stage process. Throughout each stage a 100-member panel of selected viewers and a 20-member international jury of former Eurovision jurors will assess the entries. Both jury panels get a 50% say each in the decision.
Other interesting factors also stand out in the regulations. From this there are glimpses of what type of entry to expect from Switzerland in 2023. Among the notes include suggestion to composers and artists to submit a topical entry on current events. An entry that will, “evoke an emotional reaction from or a feeling of recognition from the ESC audience.” SRF are also looking for a song with a message. A contemporary song that has international hit potential. Although nationality is not a barrier to selection, priority will be given to a Swiss resident/citizen if two acts are tied in the process.
Switzerland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2022
Earlier this year, Marius Bear and his emotional ballad, ‘Boys Do Cry‘, became the 62nd appearance of Switzerland in the Eurovision Song Contest. During the contest in Turin, Switzerland qualified from the first Semi-Final in 9th place. Following an emotive performance in the Grand Final, Marius achieved a respectable 17th place with 78 points.
Although Marius has since revealed his personal struggles with the result and voting, he remains positive for the future. Even suggesting his journey with the contest is not finished. Could he be a surprise returnee in 2023?
Who do you want to see represent Switzerland at Eurovision 2023? Let us know! Be sure to stay updated by following @ESCXTRA on Twitter, @escxtra on Instagram, @escxtra on TikTok and liking our Facebook page for the latest updates! Also, be sure to follow us on Spotify for the latest music from your favourite Eurovision acts. As well as YouTube to see our reactions to the news in the run up to the 2023 Eurovision season.
