'Open Up' the theme of Eurovision 2020

The slogan for the Eurovision Song Contest in Rotterdam next year is 'Open Up', the organizers announced. "We looked for a theme and slogan that reflect what the Netherlands stands for and which the Dutch can identify with; a country with an open mind to the world, where we speak our mind, with respect for each other", said Sietse Bakker, executive producer of next year's event.

"The slogan 'Open Up' is intentionally incomplete: Open up to each other. Open up to music. Open up to Rotterdam. Open up to... whatever you choose! Feel the freedom to complete the slogan in your own way. That way we get to know each other better", Bakker said.

She added that it was also important to find a slogan that fits with the spirit of the times. "People are concerned about increasing polarization and freedom isn't as self-evident for everyone as it should be", Bakker said. "With the slogan 'Open Up', we warmly invite people to open up to others, to different opinions, each other's stories and of course to each other's music."

Jon Ola Sand, executive supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest for the EBU is pleased with the slogan. "Open Up is the perfect slogan for the Eurovision Song Contest as it celebrates its 65th edition. In 1956, only 7 countries could watch the competition and since then we have opened up to the whole of Europe, to Australia and now, via streaming, to the whole world. The values of the Eurovision Song Contest are universality and inclusivity, and our proud tradition of celebrating diversity through music. Now we can add a new one – that of openness.”

The first semi-final will be held on May 12th next year, followed by the second semi-final on May 14th, and the grand final on May 16th.