The 2026 Eurovision Song Contest is facing a significant crisis as several major European nations have announced they will boycott the event. This follows the European Broadcasting Union's (EBU) confirmation that Israel will be allowed to compete in next year's competition.
Which Countries Are Boycotting and Why?
The boycott, organised by national broadcasters, is a direct protest against Israel's military actions in Gaza. The participating organisations state that these actions conflict with core humanitarian principles.
As of now, broadcasters from three key nations have formally confirmed their complete withdrawal. The Netherlands (AVROTROS), Spain (RTVE), and Ireland (RTE) have stated they will neither send an act nor broadcast the contest. Slovenia’s public broadcaster has also opted out.
Reports indicate that broadcasters in Belgium and Iceland are also likely to join the growing boycott movement, which could further diminish the scale of the 2026 event.
Official Statements From Withdrawing Broadcasters
The reasons given by each broadcaster are united in their condemnation but specific in their wording. Ireland's RTE called its potential participation "unconscionable," citing the "appalling loss of lives in Gaza."
RTV Slovenia said it was withdrawing on behalf of the Slovenian public, emphasising a need to adhere to European standards promoting peace.
The Dutch broadcaster, AVROTROS, argued that fundamental values like humanity and press freedom had been "seriously compromised" and were non-negotiable. Spain's RTVE followed through on a prior internal board agreement to withdraw if Israel remained in the contest.
Political Reaction and the EBU's Stance
The decision has sparked a political reaction in the UK. Shadow culture secretary Nigel Huddleston labelled the boycotts as "deeply concerning." He argued that music should unite people and must not be used as a tool for political statements.
The EBU has stood by its decision, which was ratified in a general assembly meeting on December 4, 2025. The union stated that allowing Israel's participation demonstrated "clear support for reforms to reinforce trust and protect neutrality" within the organisation.
This controversy sets the stage for a fractured and highly politicised Eurovision 2026, challenging the event's long-standing motto of being a non-political musical celebration.
