Why Eurovision 2023 is taking place in the UK and not Ukraine

For the first time in 25 years, the UK is hosting Eurovision.

Although we didn't win last year, Essex singer Sam Ryder put in a fantastic effort with his song 'Space Man'. He made history, becoming the UK's highest-scoring entrant with 466 points overall.

But Ukraine's Kalush Orchestra won the 2023 competition, with a huge 631 points for their song 'Stefania'. Despite their victory, the UK is hosting the event on their behalf.

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Eurovision bosses said the contest could not be held in Ukraine for 'safety and security reasons' due to the ongoing conflict in the country. On 24 February 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine and occupied some of its major cities. The invasion has resulted in tens of thousands of deaths on both sides, and instigated Europe's largest refugee crisis since World War II.

In July, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) confirmed that the BBC would be hosting Eurovision on behalf of Ukraine's broadcasters, UA:PBC. At the time, Martin Österdahl, the Eurovision Song Contest’s Executive Supervisor said: “We’re exceptionally grateful that the BBC has accepted to stage the Eurovision Song Contest in the UK in 2023.

“The BBC has taken on hosting duties for other winning countries on four previous occasions. Continuing in this tradition of solidarity, we know that next year’s Contest will showcase the creativity and skill of one of Europe’s most experienced public broadcasters whilst ensuring this year’s winners, Ukraine, are celebrated and represented throughout the event.”

Mykola Chernotytskyi, Head of the Managing Board of UA:PBC, added: “The 2023 Eurovision Song Contest will not be in Ukraine but in support of Ukraine. We are grateful to