A Dutch politican has put forward an idea for a brand new, Eurovision-style song contest for member countries of the European Union.

Toine Manders, a member of the European parliament for the Netherlands, has suggested a new show comprising only the member states of the European Union. The aim of the EU contest would be to increase the sense of belonging for each country, but would promote individuality through an official language rule, as the Eurovision Song Contest did for many of its years.

Former participant for the Netherlands, Sandra Reemer (1972, 1976 and 1979) has already expressed her support for the plan, as has prominent journalist Henk Krol. The new format would address several issues raised in recent editions of the Eurovision Song Contest, such as neighbourly voting. Safeguards would be put in place under Manders' suggestions, including a split between televotes and a jury vote to determine the winner.

Several media companies are said to have already shown interest in the scheme, and in the meantime, Manders continues to lobby the European Parliament for funding for the project.