Switzerland and the Eurovision Song Contest

Switzerland holds a significant place in Eurovision history as one of the seven founding nations participating in the inaugural contest in 1956. In fact, they hosted that very first event in Lugano, making them the very first host nation of the Eurovision Song Contest. Lys Assia, representing Switzerland, won with her song “Refrain,” thereby etching Switzerland’s name in Eurovision’s annals as the first ever victor.

While boasting a historic win, Switzerland’s subsequent Eurovision journey has been varied. The country has experienced both remarkable successes and periods of prolonged drought. After their initial victory, Switzerland faced a lengthy wait for another win, eventually achieved by Céline Dion in 1988 with “Ne partez pas sans moi.” This victory was particularly notable, as Dion was already on the cusp of superstardom, bringing international attention to Switzerland’s participation.

Throughout the decades, Switzerland has experimented with diverse musical styles and languages. While French and German were frequent choices in earlier years, the country has also presented songs in Italian and Romansh, one of Switzerland’s national languages. More recently, English has become the language of choice, reflecting contemporary musical trends and aiming for broader appeal. Some entries were initially performed in English and then translated to another of the national languages for the contest.

The selection process for the Swiss entry has evolved over the years. Initially, broadcasters internally selected the artist and song. Later, national finals were introduced, allowing the public to participate in choosing their representative. These national finals have varied in format, with some featuring established artists and others providing a platform for emerging talent. More recent approaches have sometimes involved collaboration between broadcasters and music experts to identify the most promising entries.

Despite periods of lower rankings and occasional non-qualifications for the grand final, Switzerland has remained a dedicated participant in the Eurovision Song Contest. Recent years have seen a resurgence in their success, often spearheaded by strong vocal performances and contemporary pop sounds. The Swiss approach to Eurovision reflects a desire to connect with the evolving landscape of European music while still honoring their rich musical heritage. The Eurovision Song Contest remains an important cultural event for Switzerland, showcasing their musical talent to a global audience.

1500×750 switzerland eurovision voting points from eurovisionworld.com