Vienna Prepares for Eurovision 2026 Amidst Security Concerns and Boycotts
Vienna is gearing up to host the 70th Eurovision Song Contest in May, but preparations are shadowed by heightened security measures and a series of boycotts from several participating nations. The contest, scheduled to take place from May 12th to 16th at the Wiener Stadthalle, will feature 35 broadcasters , the smallest number since 2003.
Security Measures Intensified
Austrian authorities are prioritizing safety for the event, deploying 500 security personnel to the Stadthalle and surrounding areas . While no specific threats have been identified, organizers are implementing strict security protocols, including a ban on bags within the venue and the deployment of sniffer dogs throughout the city. Oliver Lingens, Director of Events at Austrian public broadcaster ORF, emphasized that ensuring a safe event is the “top priority” .
Details regarding specific security arrangements for individual delegations, including Israel’s, have not been disclosed. Lingens stated that the security of all delegations is “very important” .
Countries Boycott Contest Over Israel’s Participation
The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest has been marked by protests and boycotts from several countries due to Israel’s participation amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Ireland, Spain, Slovenia, the Netherlands, and Iceland have all announced they will not compete this year . This marks the largest number of boycotting countries in the contest’s history since 1970 .
Austria’s Hosting and Representation
Vienna was selected as the host city after Austrian artist Johannes Pietsch, performing as JJ, won the 2025 contest in Basel, Switzerland . Austria will be represented by Benjamin Gedeon, known as Cosmó, who expressed his excitement about fulfilling a “lifelong dream” . Cosmó secured his spot with his German-language dance track, “Tanzschein” .
Hosts and Stage Design
The 70th Eurovision Song Contest will be hosted by Victoria Swarovski and Michael Ostrowski . The stage design, conceived by Florian Wieder, aims to blend familiar elements with innovative concepts, featuring a curved leaf-shaped LED surface as its centerpiece . The design draws inspiration from the Viennese Secession art movement, embracing a spirit of renewal and creative freedom .