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Economic and political dependencies in cultural voting: A gravity model analysis of Eurovision

Author

Listed:
  • Alina M. Schoenberg

    (IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences)

  • Dimitrios G. Ierapetritis

    (IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences)

  • Chiara Foramitti

    (IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences)

  • Christopher Schwand

    (IMC Krems University of Applied Sciences)

Abstract

This paper examines the factors shaping voting behaviour in the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) by applying a gravity model to bilateral voting data from Grand Finals between 1995 and 2019. Using Poisson Pseudo-Maximum Likelihood (PPML) estimation this work analyses how non-ESC related factors such as economic ties, population size, migration, and geographic proximity, diplomatic and political ties affect voting behaviour in the participating countries. The findings highlight geopolitical, economic, and diasporic dynamics underlying Eurovision voting patterns and contribute to broader discussions on cultural affinity and soft power in international relations.

Suggested Citation

  • Alina M. Schoenberg & Dimitrios G. Ierapetritis & Chiara Foramitti & Christopher Schwand, 2025. "Economic and political dependencies in cultural voting: A gravity model analysis of Eurovision," Romanian Journal of Regional Science, Romanian Regional Science Association, vol. 19(1), pages 1-19, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:rrs:journl:v:19:y:2025:i:1:p:1-19
    as

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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Ginsburgh, Victor & Noury, Abdul G., 2008. "The Eurovision Song Contest. Is voting political or cultural?," European Journal of Political Economy, Elsevier, vol. 24(1), pages 41-52, March.
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    6. Derek Gatherer, 2006. "Comparison of Eurovision Song Contest Simulation with Actual Results Reveals Shifting Patterns of Collusive Voting Alliances," Journal of Artificial Societies and Social Simulation, Journal of Artificial Societies and Social Simulation, vol. 9(2), pages 1-1.
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C51 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Econometric Modeling - - - Model Construction and Estimation
    • O18 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Urban, Rural, Regional, and Transportation Analysis; Housing; Infrastructure

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