Dutch broadcaster Nederlandse Publieke Omroep (NPO) has reversed its decision to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2027, just one month after confirming it would take part. The NPO has announced it will not select a representative and will step back from the 2027 edition.
The decision follows a previous U-turn last month, when the NPO stepped in after AvroTros, the broadcaster that usually facilitates the Dutch entry, claimed it would boycott the contest.
Sensitivities and the push to ban Israel
In a new statement, the NPO said the decision was made due to 'sensitivities' around the contest, alluding to the ongoing push to ban Israel from competing. Jet de Ranitz, Chair of the Executive Board of the NPO, said: 'We understand that this is a disappointment for everyone looking forward to a Dutch entry at the Eurovision Song Contest. As the NPO, we believe it is important to serve all Dutch people, including those who hold the Eurovision Song Contest dear and would like to see the Netherlands participate again.'
She added: 'We are convinced that the Eurovision Song Contest belongs on public television, as one of the largest international cultural events centered on music, connection, and diversity.'
Failed attempts to find a broadcaster
De Ranitz revealed the NPO had 'held discussions' to see if another broadcaster would help facilitate the competition after AvroTros' boycott. While they 'initially felt there was sufficient support to return', ultimately the country has been forced to pull out.
She said: 'Due to the sensitivities surrounding the themes currently at play, we have decided to take a step back for the time being.'
Coverage and other boycotting nations
The NPO has said that broadcasting organisation NOS will provide coverage of the contest, while an independent panel will select the Dutch participant. The semi-finals and final will air as usual but without an act from the Netherlands, as it did this year.
The Netherlands and other nations boycotted the competition in 2026 over the EBU's refusal to suspend Israel despite the severe civilian death toll and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Along with the Netherlands, Ireland has confirmed it will not participate in Eurovision 2027 after boycotting the 2026 competition.
In a statement, Ireland's broadcaster said: 'RTÉ feels that Ireland's participation cannot be justified given the appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there which continues to put the lives of so many civilians at risk.'
Iceland, Spain and Slovenia also boycotted the 2026 contest. Neither Iceland nor Slovenia have ruled out participation in the 2027 event, which will be held in Bulgaria. Spain's broadcaster has indicated there are discussions underway over whether to boycott again.
