The decision to allow Israel to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 has triggered a significant boycott, with several national broadcasters announcing their immediate withdrawal from the competition.
Broadcasters Take a Stand
Following the European Broadcasting Union's (EBU) winter general assembly in Geneva on Thursday, 4th December 2025, a number of key participants confirmed they would not take part. Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS, Spain's RTVE, and Ireland's RTE all stated they would neither participate in nor broadcast the 2026 contest.
According to reports, Slovenia's national broadcaster has also joined the boycott, with claims that Belgium and Iceland may follow suit. The decisions are directly linked to the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Statements of Principle and Protest
The broadcasters issued strong statements explaining their positions. Ireland's RTE said participation was "unconscionable given the appalling loss of lives in Gaza" and the ongoing humanitarian crisis. The broadcaster also cited deep concern over the killing of journalists and the denial of access to international media in the territory.
The head of the Dutch broadcaster, Taco Zimmerman, stated that universal values such as humanity and press freedom had been "seriously compromised" and were non-negotiable. He emphasised that while culture unites, it should not be "at any price".
Natalija Gorscak, board chairwoman for RTV Slovenia, framed the decision as a public mandate, saying: "For the third year in a row, the public has demanded that we say no to the participation of any country that attacks another country." She dedicated the action to the memory of the children who have died in Gaza.
Political Reaction and the Road to Vienna
The boycott announcements drew a sharp response from UK Shadow Culture Secretary Nigel Huddleston. He stated it was "absolutely right" for Israel to be included but expressed that it was "deeply concerning" to see countries pulling out. "Music should be a uniting force, not a tool to be weaponised for political ends," he argued, urging the government not to legitimise the boycott.
Meanwhile, Israeli President Isaac Herzog welcomed the EBU's decision on social media platform X, writing that "Israel deserves to be represented on every stage around the world." He thanked those who supported Israel's continued participation.
The controversy follows rule changes announced by the EBU last month regarding promotion and voting, reforms which were prompted by concerns over Israel's result in the 2025 contest. Israeli entrant Yuval Raphael won the public vote but finished as runner-up after jury votes were counted.
Despite the growing boycott, the Eurovision 2026 final is currently scheduled to proceed in Vienna on 16th May 2026. The EBU has stated that its members showed clear support for reforms to reinforce trust and protect neutrality, following a secret ballot on the new rules.
