Israel participates in Eurovision because its public broadcaster, Kan, is a member of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which is the key criterion for participation. Membership in the EBU, rather than geographical location in Europe, allows non-European countries like Israel (and Australia) to compete in Eurovision. Israel joined Eurovision in 1973 when its broadcaster became an active member of the EBU, and it has since become a regular participant with several wins. The contest is open to all broadcasters within the EBU's broadcasting area, not strictly countries within continental Europe.