Jury rules tightened for Eurovision Song Contest 04

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Processes governing the jury system of the Eurovision Song Contest have been strengthened for next years event.

New rules released today increase the openness of jury practises, which contribute 50 per cent to the tally of participating countries.

Under the changes, the names of jury members will be announced on 1 May, a week before the first semi final of the Contest (6 May 2014) in Copenhagen.

Additionally, EUROVISION will publish the ranking allocated by each jury member immediately after the Final of the contest. To increase diversity, jury places will not be granted to music industry professionals who have served on at least one of the two prior editions of the contest.

Contest Executive Supervisor Jon Ola Sand says the changes have been approved by the Contests governing body, known as the Reference Group, and the EUROVISION TV Committee.

"Fundamentally, the rules remain the same," he said. "However, increased openness enables the Eurovision Song Contest to build on its success."

Participants, viewers and fans know that we will always do our utmost to secure a fair result," Mr Sand added. "These changes are a reminder that the Contest is an evolving tradition, which adapts to the spirit of time.

In recent months, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which operates EUROVISION, has investigated reports questioning the integrity of voting procedures during this years Contest in Malm , Sweden.

"If our investigation brings about evidence of wrongdoing, we will take the required action," said Mr Sand. "Additionally, we plan to open an official page on our website to receive reports of any voting irregularities."

Allegations will be investigated by the organisers, the contest's voting partner Digame and consultants PricewaterhouseCoopers, which oversee the voting procedure.

In May, Emmelie de Forrest won the 2013 Contest with "Only Teardrops", securing Denmark's right to host the next edition of the Contest for public broadcaster DR.

The Contest will be held at the B&W Hallerne in Copenhagen under the theme "Join Us!". The list of represented countries will be released early January.

More information about the Eurovision Song Contest can be found at www.eurovision.tv.

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