Formats Forum 2026 | EBU

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(Note: Translations are generated with the help of AI without human review. These translations are made available to you for convenience and may contain inaccuracies or errors. Please check important information in the original English version or contact us. The EBU cannot be held liable for any inaccuracies or errors contained in these translations.)

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Dear user,

Last month, the EBU switched to a new authentication method, Microsoft Entra, and decommissioned the former one (sso.ebu.ch).

What this means for most EBU Members ?

Employees of most EBU Members should now use a federated login to authenticate. This means your organization acts as the identity provider. You no longer need 2 separate accounts or 2 separate passwords.

Your work credentials give you access to EBU content.

What to do on the next screen ?

If you already have an EBU account, enter your professional email address and select Next. You will see the EBU logo change to your organization’s logo. Enter your usual work password and, if prompted, accept the sharing of information with the EBU.

What if we are using shared mailboxes ?

The new authentication mechanism does not work with shared mailboxes. If you usually access EBU websites using a shared account, you must create a new individual user account. Scroll down to view the instructions.

If federated login does not work ?

For some EBU Members, as well as the general public, federated login will not work. Login remains possible with your existing account. 3 different cases may occur:

Case 1: If your email address is linked to a Microsoft account, you will be redirected to https://login.live.com. Log in using your usual Microsoft credentials.
Case 2: If your email address is linked to a Google account, you will be redirected to https://accounts.google.com. Log in using your usual Google credentials.
Case 3: If your email address is not linked to either service, you will receive a temporary password by email each time you log in.

What to do if none of the above seems to work ?

Please read the instructions below carefully, as the choice you make during your first login cannot be changed later.

To create a new account, select No account? Create one.

You will have 3 options:

Microsoft: Recommended for users working for EBU Member organizations.
Google: Create an account using your existing Google account.
Other valid email address: A temporary password will be sent to your inbox each time you log in.

If you still cannot log in after following these instructions, contact [email protected].

The 2026 EBU Formats Forum will take place on 8 and 9 September 2026, in Mainz, Germany, and hosted by ZDF.

The event is a unique space for EBU members to discuss, share, and learn about formatted TV and digital programs. This year marks the 20-year anniversary of the event, making the 2026 edition a truly special milestone in celebrating two decades of creativity, collaboration, and groundbreaking formats.

Following the success of our last two editions, the event will not only highlight our Members' best formats but also provide a space to learn, discuss, and explore the latest format trends, challenges, and innovations.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Formats Forum, our host ZDF is offering masterclass sessions on distribution strategies that drive success in today's media landscape. On the evening of 8 September, we will celebrate together and enjoy an evening of wine tasting and dinner, hosted by ZDF.

Registration for the event is now open. Seats for the event are limited, so make sure to save your spot now.

The full agenda will be announced following the Formats Experts Group’s selection meeting.

In the meantime, have a look at the event's schedule overview.

Venue

ZDF Headquarters – Mainz-Lerchenberg

ZDF-Straße 1
55127 Mainz
Germany

Hotel recommendations

Have a look at some hotel recommended by ZDF with some special rates here.