Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (CyBC) director-general Thanasis Tsokos has defended Cyprus’ participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, stating that the public broadcaster is “proud” of the country’s 35-year presence in the competition.
Speaking to Politis Radio (107.6 and 97.6 fm), Tsokos addressed the backlash surrounding this year’s entry and music video, acknowledged that changes will be made to the visual material, and disclosed the total cost of the participation.
“Over 200 million viewers”
Tsokos stressed that CyBC has maintained a continuous presence in Eurovision for 35 years, projecting Cyprus internationally “through the codes of a major global music and artistic event that attracts more than 200 million viewers.”
He said the broadcaster stands by its long-standing participation in the contest, framing it as part of Cyprus’ cultural outreach abroad.
Responding to the backlash
The director-general was asked about strong reactions expressed in a letter by prominent citizens, who argued that this year’s entry offends the aesthetics, history and traditions of Cyprus.
Tsokos said that, as a public institution, CyBC has a duty to respond to such positions, particularly when they come from distinguished members of society.
On the controversial music video, he stated that it would be wrong to engage in commentary on artistic creation itself. However, he acknowledged responsibility for not requesting changes sooner and confirmed that corrections to the visual material have already been requested and “will be made.”
How the artist and song were chosen
Explaining the selection process, Tsokos said CyBC collaborates with record companies in Greece, as there are no equivalent industry structures in Cyprus. The companies propose artists, followed by a pre-selection process by CyBC.
This year, an online questionnaire was also used to record public opinion.
The final decision, he clarified, always rests with CyBC. The evaluation committee consists of around 50 individuals, only one of whom is a CyBC executive. The names of the committee members are not made public.
Tsokos revealed that the total cost of Cyprus’ participation amounts to €170,000. Of that, between €100,000 and €120,000 is borne by CyBC, while the remainder is covered by the production company.