In a recent statement, the Slovakian broadcasting network RTVS officially announced its decision to abstain from participating in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2025. This choice, as conveyed by RTVS spokesperson Zuzana Vicelová to ta3, is attributed to financial limitations resulting from reduced budget allocations. The decision follows a decrease in state budget allocation for RTVS, leading to insufficient resources to support the financial demands associated with Eurovision participation.
Slovakia’s absence from Eurovision has been prolonged since its last appearance in 2012. Despite initial considerations to re-enter the competition following a funding model overhaul, RTVS Director General ĽuboÅ¡ Machaj’s efforts to bring Slovakia back to Eurovision have been halted by financial constraints.
Slovakia’s first participation in the Eurovision Song Contest dates all the way back to 1993, when they debuted with Elán’s “Amnestia na neveru” yet failed to qualify for the final. They participated for an additional seven years, albeit inconsistently, with the last participation ending in 2012 in Baku, having been represented by Max Jason Mai’s “Don’t Close Your Eyes”.
The retreat of Slovakia from Eurovision 2025 raises questions about the future participation of other nations. As the Eurovision landscape evolves, the financial viability of participation remains a crucial factor for broadcasters across Europe.
