In brief
Canadian broadcaster CBC/Radio‑Canada has become a full member of the European Broadcasting Union, paving the way for the country’s maiden appearance in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027. The move makes Canada the first unqualified country to enter after Australia’s 2015 debut, following a volatile 2026 contest that saw several European nations withdraw in protest over Israel’s participation. Canada’s entry will appear in the 2027 semi‑finals held in Sofia, and a selection process will be announced later this year. The country boasts a rich Eurovision heritage – most famously Celine Dion’s 1988 win for Switzerland – and expands the contest’s global reach amid a politically charged backdrop. Eurovision organizers hope the inclusion will strengthen the event’s diverse community and revive interest from boycotting members.
Canada will take part in the Eurovision Song Contest for the first time in 2027, as its public broadcaster, CBC/Radio‑Canada, has joined the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) as a full member.
This makes Canada the newest participant since Australia joined in 2015, and follows a turbulent 2026 contest where Ireland, Spain, Iceland, the Netherlands, France and Slovenia withdrew in protest of Israel’s inclusion.
The move follows the November announcement by the Canadian federal government that it was working with CBC to explore the country’s participation, backed by a budget of C$150m ($105m) for the broadcaster.
Canada is already a Eurovision soul‑mate, with Quebec‑born Céline Dion representing Switzerland in 1988 and later winning with "Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi". Other Canadian artists such as Natasha St‑Pier and La Zarra have represented France in the past.
Organisers confirm that Canada will debut at the 2027 semi‑finals in Sofia and that CBC will announce its selection process later this year. The decision is part of a broader push to strengthen the EBU’s family of member broadcasters and to keep the competition inclusive and politically aware.
While the 2026 event was won by Bulgarian pop star Dara, the 2027 contest will again be hosted in Sofia, London, illustrating the enduring partnership between the host nation and the Eurovision community.
