Unanswered Questions: Voting Integrity in Melodifestivalen

Photo credit : Photo by SVT Melodifestivalen 2025

As excitement builds around Melodifestivalen, concerns emerge regarding the integrity of the voting process, particularly with votes from Finland potentially submitted via VPN.

Introduction to Voting Concerns

As the excitement of Melodifestivalen unfolds, a troubling narrative has emerged regarding the integrity of voting, particularly concerning votes from Finland via VPN. Despite numerous attempts to gain clarity, SVT has remained unresponsive. On 11 March , 2025, we reached out to SVT seeking transparency about how many international votes may have influenced this year’s results.

Speculations on VPN Voting

Media reports in Sweden have indicated that certain fan groups encouraged voting from abroad using VPN services. Some officials at SVT have implied that these actions only limit the votes and would ultimately not affect the overall results. However, this assertion raises critical questions. Without concrete numbers or evidence, how can SVT assure the public that the results reflect a fair process? Understanding how many votes came from outside Sweden could provide context that is currently lacking.

The Call for Transparency

It is disheartening to see that SVT has not addressed our inquiries regarding the volume of VPN votes compared to those cast within Sweden. If SVT truly possesses information to substantiate their claims, why have they not disclosed it? Their repeated assurances about limited external voting, without supportive data, leave fans and participants in the dark. As Melodifestivalen continues to be a cherished event, the necessity for factual defence is paramount. We deserve clarity, not silence.

As excitement builds around Melodifestivalen, concerns emerge regarding the integrity of the voting process, particularly with votes from Finland potentially submitted via VPN. Despite previous inquiries, SVT has remained silent, raising questions about the influence of international votes on the results. This blog explores the implications of VPN voting, the need for transparency from SVT, and why clear communication is essential for preserving the trust of fans and participants alike.