OGAE

Lore & Background

The OGAE International Network was founded in 1984 in Savonlinna, Finland by Jaripekka Koikkalainen. It operates as an independent, non-governmental, non-political and non-profit body. The network is open to countries that take part in the Eurovision Song Contest or have participated in the past. Countries without their own OGAE branch, including Monaco, San Marino, Kazakhstan, South Africa, and the United States, participate under the 'Rest of the World' title.

Every year the organisation arranges two competitions: the OGAE Second Chance Contest (begun in 1987 as 'Europe's Favourite') and the OGAE Song Contest (begun in 1986). It also conducts an annual pre-Eurovision poll (since 2007) and formerly awarded the Marcel Bezençon Fan Award in 2002 and 2003. The OGAE Video Contest began in 2003. The organisation became a registered entity in France in 2011, with Maiken Mäemets elected president that year; she was re-elected in 2013. Simon Bennett succeeded her in 2015.

Reader's Guide

The OGAE serves as the primary international umbrella for Eurovision fan clubs, fostering a global community of enthusiasts and promoting national popular music through its annual contests. Its Second Chance Contest and Song Contest allow fans to engage with songs that did not win or were not selected for Eurovision, expanding the reach of national music scenes. The organisation's cooperation with the EBU and national broadcasters helps market the Eurovision Song Contest to a wider audience. The OGAE Poll, conducted annually since 2007, provides a fan-driven forecast of Eurovision results. The network's structure, including the 'Rest of the World' category, ensures inclusivity for countries without their own club. The OGAE's longevity—over four decades—and its growth to 42 member clubs demonstrate its significance as a cultural institution within the Eurovision fandom.

Did You Know?

• The OGAE Second Chance Contest began in 1987 under the name 'Europe's Favourite'.
• The Marcel Bezençon Fan Award was voted on by OGAE members in 2002 and 2003 before being discontinued.