ORF the Austrian host broadcaster and organisers of the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 has confirmed in a press conference that it will allow all official flags and not censor any crowd noise during the broadcasts of the Vienna contest next May.
ORF – “Our task is to show things as they are”
During an ORF press conference, the executive producer of Eurovision 2026 confirmed to reporters that the broadcasts from Vienna will be transparent and show the reactions as they are within the venue. This marks a change from recent policy, with crowd noise technology being used in Basel earlier this year to mute booing.
“we will not sugarcoat anything or avoid showing what is happening, because our task is to show things as they are.”
Michael Kroen
Meanwhile, ORF’s programming director reiterated a commitment to journalism transparency and refusal to hide away from the realities of the situation.
“We won’t play artificial applause over it at any point.
If there are large protests, then we will not hide this. But if there are smaller groups, then you don’t have to cut on every protester.”
Stefanie Groiss-Horowitz, (ORF Programme Director)
Furthermore, the organisers have confirmed that all ‘official flags’ will be allowed in the venue. Suggesting there is no ban on the use of the Palestinian flag providing it complies with the security requirements. This is a continuation of the flag policy in use for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel earlier this year.
“We will allow all official flags that exist in the world, if they comply with the law and are in a certain form – size, security risks, etc.”
This update comes at a contentious time for the contest following the recent EBU General Assembly. The aftermath of this leading to the shock withdrawals of Iceland, Ireland, Netherlands, Spain and Slovenia following confirmation that Israel will continue its participation in the contest.
35 participants will compete in Eurovision 2026. This is the lowest number of broadcasters since 2003. The two Semi-Finals are set for May 12 and 14. The Grand Final will take place on May 16 2026.
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