Edith Hejberg
The Eurovision reference appeared quietly in the nearly 500-page budget document, catching many off guard.
Among the usual policy items in Canada’s federal budget, one unexpected line stood out: the government is working with CBC/Radio-Canada to explore taking part in the Eurovision Song Contest.
The idea, though still in early stages, has sparked fascination both in Canada and across Europe.
A musical wildcard buried in policy pages
The Eurovision reference appeared quietly in the nearly 500-page budget document, catching many off guard.
It wasn’t part of a cultural plan or media announcement, just a small line suggesting that Canada could one day send an act to the world’s biggest televised music competition.
A strategic move, not just a spectacle
Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne confirmed the Eurovision idea came from “the people who participate,” though he didn’t clarify whether that meant other countries or the European Broadcasting Union.
He appeared to support the move, describing it as part of a broader realignment of Canada’s global relationships.
“This is about protecting our identity”
In an interview with Global News, Champagne said Eurovision could be a cultural opportunity as well as a geopolitical statement.
“This is about protecting our identity, yes, we want to protect our sovereignty, but you also want to help people in the arts sector… and we have a lot to offer as Canadians.”
Canada distances itself from the U.S.
The move also comes as tensions with the United States rise.
Under renewed pressure from Donald Trump’s protectionist policies and border restrictions, Canada is seeking to strengthen alliances elsewhere, particularly in Europe, where it sees closer cultural and diplomatic alignment.
Prime minister leans into European ties
On his first official trip abroad, Prime Minister Mark Carney visited France and the UK, where he made headlines by calling Canada “the most European of the non-European countries.”
The Eurovision bid aligns neatly with that positioning, suggesting a long-term cultural and diplomatic shift.
Carney’s personal investment in the idea
According to two government sources who spoke to CBC, Carney is personally backing Canada’s Eurovision aspirations.
Having lived, studied, and worked in the UK, including a stint as governor of the Bank of England, Carney’s European ties could help push the plan forward.
Eurovision responds with open arms
Martin Green, director of the Eurovision Song Contest, confirmed early discussions are underway.
“The Canadian conversation with CBC/Radio-Canada is in its very early stages,” he told the Guardian. “We’re always excited to know that broadcasters want to be part of the world’s largest live music show.”
Big dreams, big challenges
While excitement is high, local media have highlighted potential hurdles. Entering Eurovision isn’t cheap, and producing a competitive act could require significant investment.
Canada also lacks a large domestic fan base for the contest, unlike Europe, where it draws millions each year.
Not the first time Canada has considered it
CBC reportedly considered Eurovision participation before in 2022 but decided the costs were too steep. The idea was shelved as “prohibitively expensive.”
This renewed interest suggests the political climate may now make the investment more worthwhile.
Canadian stars have graced Eurovision before
Despite never officially competing, Canada has already left its mark on Eurovision. Céline Dion famously won for Switzerland in 1988.
Natasha St-Pier sang for France in 2001, and Montreal-born La Zarra represented France again in 2023, showing Canada’s musical talent already resonates in Europe.
Following in Australia’s footsteps?
Australia joined Eurovision in 2015 as an associate member of the European Broadcasting Union, the same status Canada holds.
Its inclusion proved a surprise success. Canada could follow a similar path if formally invited by the contest’s governing board.
A soft power play through song
Whether or not Canada ultimately joins Eurovision, the effort signals a savvy use of cultural diplomacy.
By tying identity and the arts to foreign policy, the country is blending pop culture with international strategy, and perhaps finding a fresh stage for Canadian voices to shine.
This article is made and published by Edith Hejberg, who may have used AI in the preparation
