Updated guidelines have been shared for Eurovision 2025, stating that performers can only bring a flag on stage for the country they represent. This officially bans the use of Pride flags for the performers and their delegations while on stage at venues, events, and other related performances. This ban also involves flags that might be held in solidarity for other countries.

Speaking to PinkNews, a Eurovision Song Contest spokesperson explained the reason for the ban: “Together we wanted to strike a balance to ensure that our audiences and artists can express their enthusiasm and identities, whilst at the same time provide more clarity for the delegations when it comes to official spaces”.

This isn’t the first controversy Eurovision has faced in recent years in regard to flags. Last year, many fans were outraged by Israel’s participation in the contest despite its war crimes in Gaza. This led to the banning of the Palestinian flag at the event, as many brought it to the venue in protest.

Last year’s eventual winner, Nemo, also had to smuggle in a non-binary flag for their performance as they were told not to bring it on stage by Eurovision organisers. Fans also faced similar issues, as security confiscated any Pride flags that represented a specific group within the LGBTQ+ community.

While performers are banned from bringing on flags other than those of their countries, fans will be allowed to have any flags with them as long as they do not incite hatred or violence, are not offensive or defamatory, and are not symbols of banned terrorist groups. This also means that fans can once again wave the Palestinian flag.

If a participant breaks the rules, Eurovision has stated that they will face “consequences”. The breaking of these rules may result in removal from the venue/show and the confiscation of the flag, along with some additional consequences. When asked by Danish broadcaster DR what those specific consequences were, Eurovision declined to elaborate.

Eurovision 2025 will be held in Basel, Switzerland, on May 13, 15 and 17. Ireland representative, EMMY, will be performing in the second round of semi-finals on May 15, with her hit song ‘Laika Party’.