After years of absence, Bosnia and Herzegovina might be making a comeback to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2026, according to recent statements by Lejla A. Babović — the country’s former Head of Delegation back in 2016.
Babović emphasized that the country’s return heavily depends on settling previous debts and a joint effort from all involved stakeholders:
❝If we pay off the debt by November and start working seriously, we could come back by 2026. But it requires effort from BHRT, the state, sponsors, and the people to choose the right song and come back as serious contenders.❞
The main reason for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s prolonged absence is the significant debt owed by its national broadcaster, BHRT, to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). This outstanding debt has led to the broadcaster being excluded from many EBU services, including participation in the Eurovision Song Contest.
Bosnia and Herzegovina last competed in 2016 with the song “Ljubav je”, but financial constraints and administrative hurdles have kept the country out of the contest for nearly a decade.
Despite these obstacles, public interest remains strong, and a potential return is eagerly awaited by Eurovision fans both in Bosnia and across Europe.
Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the updates!