At the beginning of the year, the broadcaster told Eurofestivales that they were reassessing their approach towards the competition.
We reached out to the broadcaster to get an update and they informed us the following
With Ketnet we have not taken part in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest for several years. Currently we have no plans to re-enter or re-broadcast the competition.
VRT
They went on to elaborate on their decision to us
Ketnet (VRTs’ Childrens Channel) wants to shift the focus from the competition winner, where one figure is in the spotlight, to all participants. Not only is the winner and idol for Ketnetters but all participants are.
By not participating in the international event, we get more room to put the spotlight on all children and to address a more diverse palette of talent. Ketnet works for a broad youthful audience and wants to give as many children as possible opportunities and put them in the spotlight.
VRT
They ended their statement to us by clarifying that while they have no concrete plans for the future, their participation in the event this year is extremely unlikely.
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