A wave of public appeals reignites the question: will North Macedonia return to Eurovision? Senior officials confirm the matter is back on the table.

The debates surrounding which countries will participate in Eurovision 2026, set to take place in Vienna, Austria, continue to evolve. Alongside several countries considering withdrawing from the competition, the Content Council of North Macedonia’s national broadcaster discussed proposals last month submitted by viewers, including an explicit request for renewed participation in the Eurovision Song Contest.

In recent days, Council member Ivan Efremovski confirmed that the issue is increasingly raised by citizens:

“The return of North Macedonia to Eurovision is a request made by citizens who approached us. They argue it provides essential exposure for the country and for local musicians, and that it’s an event with high ratings. For that reason, a broad public discussion should be opened”.

Eurovision Connections Are Still Alive

North Macedonia’s most recent appearance at Eurovision took place in Turin, Italy, in 2022. Nevertheless, the country has continued to send representatives consistently to Junior Eurovision. This means the link with the Eurovision brand has been preserved, even if participation in the main contest was suspended.

Although no official decision has yet been made, the very fact the matter was brought to the Content Council shows that public pressure is working. The willingness of MRT to open its doors to public feedback, and the fact that citizens’ appeals reached official discussions, could serve as the first step toward North Macedonia’s return to Eurovision.

Will a Familiar Singer Step Back Onto the Stage?

The call for a Eurovision return has arisen from multiple sides. Bobi Andonov, who represented the country at Junior Eurovision in 2008, has reportedly been negotiating with the national broadcaster about rejoining after three years of absence. He gave North Macedonia one of its best-ever Junior Eurovision results, finishing in fifth place in 2008 with the song “Parti Mi SMS” (in English: “Send Me an SMS”).

Historical Perspective: North Macedonia in Eurovision

North Macedonia has never won Eurovision, but the country boasts substantial achievements in the competition – such as a strong stage presence, musical uniqueness, and ambitious young performers who have left a mark over several contests. For instance, the singer Tamara Todevska finished seventh at Eurovision 2019 in Tel Aviv, Israel with the song “Proud”. Macedonian selections have alternated between “Skopje Festival” and internal selections, especially during financial crises – yet in every case, the country’s representatives have been characterized by creativity and authenticity.

Looking back, it’s clear how much the contest itself has evolved from a show to a rich, complex cultural game show. Among fans, opinions are divided: some argue that North Macedonia’s return would strengthen its international image, while others question whether the investment is justified given the uncertain financial returns.

Expert Analysis: The Challenges and Expectations

North Macedonia’s return to the competition involves a complex blend of financial, cultural, and political considerations. Eurovision 2026 is raising the bar – not just in musical creativity but also in production demands and digital innovation. Past experience shows that countries like Luxembourg, which returned after years of absence, have surprised and moved audiences’ hearts despite limited budgets. Longstanding fans on social media call Andonov the “X Factor”, but remain cautious due to significant logistical challenges.

A Look Ahead at the Contest’s Future

As seen in Eurovision 2025, the contest has become more analyzed than ever – with betting odds, AI predictions, and public debates directly engaging with values of inclusion, diversity, and unique voices. This year, as Austria prepares to host, we may once again see small countries standing out in global discourse – whether on the political front or in their impact among young audiences. The Macedonian public, torn between excitement and skepticism, might soon attest that for a small country, a moment on the international stage is much more than just a song.

North Macedonia in Eurovision 2022

Andrea represented North Macedonia with her song “Circles” after winning the local national final. She competed in the second semi-final and finished in 11th place with 76 points.

Eurovision 2022: This was North Macedonia’s 21st participation in Eurovision. North Macedonia joined the competition in 1998 and achieved its best result in Eurovision 2019 when singer Tamara Todevska finished in seventh place with the song “Proud”.