Canada has moved a step closer to competing in the Eurovision Song Contest after national public broadcaster CBC/Radio-Canada joined the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), following a statute change approved by the organization's general assembly on Thursday.
The country has collaborated with EBU members on journalism, standards and technology as an associate member since the 1950s, and has now become a full member following a vote at the EBU’s 96th general assembly in Prague on Thursday.
The move will also allow CBC/Radio-Canada to access member-only networks for investigative journalism, verification, digital news and data, as well as the Eurovision News Exchange and Euroradio Music Exchange services.
Marie-Philippe Bouchard, president and chief executive of CBC/Radio-Canada, said: "Thank you to the European Broadcasting Union for welcoming CBC/Radio-Canada as a full member.
"This new chapter in our relationship with the EBU and its members will deepen our co-operation at a time when the collective impact of public service media is essential.
