The Eurovision Song Contest is confronting what experts describe as the most severe crisis in its seven-decade history, as a growing number of national broadcasters threaten to boycott the 2026 event over Israel's participation.
Broadcasters Withdraw in Protest
Following a decision by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to allow Israel to compete, several public service broadcasters have publicly withdrawn from next year's competition. Spain's RTVE, the Netherlands' AVROTROS, Ireland's RTÉ, and Slovenia's RTVSLO have all confirmed they will not take part.
Belgium's broadcaster stated it would 'take a position in the coming days', while Iceland's RÚV said it would delay its final decision until next week. The moves came after the EBU's general assembly met to address mounting concerns regarding Israel's involvement, which many countries oppose due to its conduct in the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.
At that meeting, EBU members voted to adopt stricter voting rules following allegations of vote manipulation by Israel, but took no action to exclude the Israeli broadcaster, KAN.
A Celebration Overshadowed by Conflict
The feel-good pop music gala, which typically attracts over 100 million viewers annually, has been roiled by the war in Gaza for the past two years. This has stirred protests outside venues in Malmö and Basel and forced organisers to clamp down on political symbols.
Eurovision expert and author Dean Vuletic called this a 'historic moment' for the EBU. 'This is certainly one of the most serious crises that the organisation has ever faced,' Vuletic warned. 'Next year, we're going to see the biggest political boycott of Eurovision ever.'
He predicted 'tense' weeks ahead as other countries contemplate joining the walkout, threatening to overshadow the contest's 70th anniversary in Vienna next May.
The Stakes for Eurovision's Future
The boycott by several key European broadcasters could significantly impact viewership and funding at a time when many are under financial pressure. The pullouts include major players: Spain is one of the 'Big Five' large-market funders, while Ireland holds a joint record of seven wins.
The broadcasters cited various reasons for their withdrawal:
- Spain's RTVE pointed to the situation in Gaza and Israel's alleged use of the contest for political purposes.
- Ireland's RTÉ said participation was 'unconscionable' given the 'appalling loss of life' and humanitarian crisis.
- The Netherlands' AVROTROS stated Israel's participation was incompatible with its public service remit.
In contrast, Israeli President Isaac Herzog said he was 'pleased' Israel would compete, hoping the contest would 'champion culture, music, friendship between nations and cross-border cultural understanding'. Austria, Germany, Switzerland, and Luxembourg have supported Israel's participation.
The controversy also risks eclipsing the planned return of Bulgaria, Moldova, and Romania after absences due to financial and artistic reasons. A final list of participating countries for the 2026 contest in Vienna will be announced by Christmas.
Vuletic concluded grimly: 'It's the 70th anniversary. It was meant to be a big celebration, a big party, but it's going to be shrouded in political controversy yet again.'
