The Eurovision Song Contest operates as a non-profit organization, primarily funded by fees from the participating broadcasters.
The cost of participation varies for each nation. According to the official Eurovision website, there is a principle of “solidarity,” meaning that wealthier countries shoulder more of the financial responsibility.
France, Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom, and Spain, collectively known as the “Big Five,” are among the largest financial supporters. These countries enjoy the privilege of automatic entry into the Grand Final.
This year, several countries, including Spain, chose to boycott the contest due to Israel’s involvement, citing concerns over its actions in the Gaza conflict.
Austria’s national broadcaster, ORF, noted in December that the absence of these countries could present a “financial burden” to the contest’s budget.
The fees each country pays are usually shielded by pesky non-disclosure agreements, but they were enough to make Bulgaria pull out of the competition for several years.
— Alexandra Koster