‘It is time to ask if the rules allow abuse’: broadcasters call for overhaul of Eurovision voting after Israeli near win

Questions around social media campaigns prompt several nations to demand a ‘complete review’ of how the contest’s public vote works

Broadcasters across Europe are challenging the Eurovision song contest voting system, after an overwhelming public vote in favour of Israel’s entry saw it narrowly miss out on victory in a tense finale on Saturday. The contest was ultimately won by Austria’s JJ with Wasted Love.

Finland’s Yle Entertainment said: “We will ask the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) whether it is time to update these rules or at least review whether the current rules allow for abuse.” Spain’s public broadcaster called for a “complete review” to avoid “external interference”.