Basel voters approve $40 million for 2025 Eurovision Song Contest funding

In a significant move, voters in Basel have overwhelmingly approved a measure to allocate nearly $40 million (€38 million) in public funding to host the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest. The referendum, held on Sunday, revealed that 66.4% of the city's voters supported the use of taxpayer money for the event, which is renowned for its extravagant performances and international reach.
The approval of this funding is crucial for maintaining the event's full traditional flair. Had the funding not been granted, the Eurovision Song Contest in 2025 would have been considerably scaled back, limited to just the main show without any accompanying public festivities. The financial support will be directed toward various initiatives designed to enhance the event experience, including programs that coincide with the main event, accommodations for attendees, and improvements to public transportation.
Hosting Eurovision presents a unique opportunity for Basel, known for its cultural heritage and home to major pharmaceutical companies like Novartis and Roche, to showcase its art museums and other attractions to a global audience. Previous contests in cities like Liverpool and Malmo have demonstrated the financial potential of the event, with Basel aiming to generate approximately 60 million Swiss francs (€64 million, $67 million) from the contest.
Despite the positive outcome, the funding decision was not without controversy. The public funding initiative was prompted by the national-conservative Federal Democratic Union of Switzerland (EDU), a minor political party that has expressed concerns about the implications of using taxpayer money for Eurovision.
Additionally, some voters voiced apprehensions regarding potential traffic disruptions and the overall financial burden on taxpayers. These concerns highlight the ongoing discussions about the balance between supporting cultural events and addressing the needs and concerns of local residents.
Looking ahead, Switzerland is set to host the Eurovision Song Contest next year, following the historic win by Swiss singer-rapper Nemo in 2024. Nemo's victory marked a significant milestone as the first non-binary artist to claim the Eurovision title, further adding to the event's progressive and inclusive narrative. As Basel prepares for 2025, the city's commitment to embracing this vibrant cultural event will be closely watched by both supporters and critics alike.