Originally, seventeen countries had applied to compete, but on October 13, Cypriot broadcaster CyBC announced their withdrawal for internal reasons (complaints were being sent to the broadcaster stating that the song they had chosen appeared to be plagiarism). This did not affect their ability to take part in the voting.
The public broadcasters of Switzerland and Poland didn't send candidates for financial reasons. France didn't join because of restructuring within the channel. Russia and Serbia and Montenegro made their debut in the competition this year.
The theme of the show was 'Let's Get Loud', standing for the new generation on the stage.
The show was watched by 8,500 people in the Arena, including the Belgian Prince Laurent and 20-25 million people around Europe.
The show opened with fireworks and bungee jumpers.