In a significant shift for the Czech music scene, Česká televize has announced a temporary pause of the ESCZ national selection process, which has been a cornerstone in choosing the country’s Eurovision Song Contest entries. This decision comes after six successful editions of ESCZ and is driven by current budget constraints and a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality.
New Approach for Eurovision 2025
For Eurovision 2025, Czechia will move away from ESCZ and implement an internal selection process. This change is aimed at optimizing resource allocation towards staging and promotion. The submission period for potential Eurovision entries is now open, with a deadline set for September 30th, 2024, at 23:59.
Selection Criteria and Process
Entries will be evaluated by a demoscopic jury, comprising 40% of the final decision, and an international jury, also contributing 40%. The remaining 20% will be determined by a ČT selection committee, which will also handle any ties. Artists based in the Czechia, regardless of nationality, are invited to submit their songs. There is no limit on the number of submissions per artist, and composers from any country can also submit demos.
Statements from key figures
Krystof Samal, Head of Delegation, shared his thoughts on the transition: “It has been a wonderful journey to showcase Czech music on an international stage through ESCZ. Moving to a closed competition process encourages established artists to participate discreetly, without the added pressure of public competition. This approach also allows us to focus our resources on staging and both internal and external promotion. Our new direction is aimed at achieving the best possible result for Czechia, recognizing the potential for Eurovision to become a major cultural phenomenon here as it is in other European countries.”
Ahmad Halloun, PR and Engagement Manager for Eurovision, added: “Eurovision is a show with tremendous potential, especially among younger audiences, who are often difficult to engage through traditional media. This year, we will focus on a variety of activities both nationally and internationally, not only to promote our act but also to elevate the profile of the contest itself. We are collaborating with the EBU, various broadcasters, platforms, and organizations to increase its visibility and make Eurovision a more prominent part of Czech pop culture.”
The strategic shift aims to enhance staging and promotional efforts and ultimately break the country’s personal best record of 6th place, with hopes of securing a victory for Czechia.
Are you happy with Czechia’s decision? Which Czech-based artist would you like to see shining on the Eurovision stage next year? Let us know in the comments and on our social media profiles @buildingbridgespod!
Building Bridges Eurovision Podcast - buildingbridgespod.com 
Leave a comment