Malta’s representative for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, Miriana Conte, might see her entry renamed to “Conte,”following the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) decision to censor its original title, “Kant.” The name change is reportedly provisional, ensuring the song complies with contest regulations. The original title was deemed inappropriate due to its phonetic similarity to a vulgar term in English.
According to the Times of Malta, PBS, Malta’s national broadcaster, plans to replace the censored word with a “sound” in the song’s lyrics. Despite making this adjustment, PBS continues to challenge the EBU’s ruling and has officially appealed the decision.
Minimal Changes to Secure Approval
PBS has confirmed that the lyrical modification will be as subtle as possible. Keith Chetcuti, the broadcaster’s CEO,emphasized their intent to retain the song’s original essence while making the necessary changes to gain approval from the Eurovision Reference Group. The final versions of all Eurovision 2025 entries must be submitted by March 10, as per EBU regulations.
The controversy began after an EBU member, allegedly from the BBC, raised concerns over the title “Kant” due to its resemblance to an offensive term in English. The EBU subsequently requested PBS to change both the title and any lyrical references to the word.
Malta’s Legal Challenge Against EBU Censorship
PBS has formally appealed to the EBU’s TV Committee and is reportedly considering legal action in Switzerland over what they perceive as discrimination against the Maltese language.
Owen Bonnici, Malta’s Minister of Culture, stated on March 6 that PBS is “actively exploring legal avenues to challenge this decision in Swiss courts.” He described the censorship as a violation of freedom of expression and discrimination against the Maltese language.
“This decision infringes on freedom of speech and the right to non-discrimination. The word ‘kant’ holds a positive and beautiful meaning in Maltese,” said Bonnici.
Keith Chetcuti has also escalated the issue to Markus Sterky, Chairman of the EBU’s Television Committee, with support from Spanish Vice Chair Ana María Bordas. In an official letter, PBS expressed disappointment with the ruling, labeling it “unjust, disproportionate, and discriminatory.” The broadcaster further argued that the decision reflects “an abuse of power and an inconsistent application of EBU rules.”
Eurovision 2025: Malta’s Entry Faces Unexpected Roadblocks
Despite the controversy, Miriana Conte remains Malta’s representative for Eurovision 2025, and the final version of her song—whether titled “Conte” or otherwise—will soon be submitted to the EBU. Conte shared her disappointment on social media, voicing frustration over the decision but reaffirming her commitment to representing Malta at Eurovision in Basel.
Initially, the Eurovision Reference Group had approved the song, and its original title “Kant (Singing)” was still listed on the official Eurovision website before the recent developments.
With the deadline looming, all eyes are now on PBS and the EBU as Malta’s Eurovision entry continues to navigate its path to the Eurovision stage.