Ireland, Spain, Slovenia and the Netherlands have announced they will boycott next year's Eurovision Song Contest after Israel was cleared to compete in the 2026 event. The decision came despite calls from several participating broadcasters for Israel's exclusion over the war in Gaza.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organises the competition, held a general assembly on Thursday but did not allow a vote on Israel's participation. Instead, members voted on new rules designed to prevent governments and third parties from disproportionately promoting songs to influence voters. The EBU stated that a large majority agreed there was no need for a further vote and that the contest should proceed as planned.
In response, Irish broadcaster RTÉ said it would not participate or broadcast the contest, calling it 'unconscionable given the appalling loss of lives in Gaza'. Spanish broadcaster RTVE also withdrew, citing 'insufficient' decision-making and 'distrust'. Spain's culture minister, Ernest Urtasun, backed the boycott, saying 'you can't whitewash Israel given the genocide in Gaza'. Dutch broadcaster Avrotros and Slovenian broadcaster RTVSLO also confirmed their withdrawal.
The BBC indicated it would broadcast the competition, supporting the EBU's collective decision and emphasising inclusivity. German broadcaster SWR also confirmed participation. Broadcasters from Norway, Sweden, Finland, Denmark and Iceland voted in favour of the rule changes and said they would continue to support the contest, though Iceland's RÚV said it would reconsider its position.
Israel's president, Isaac Herzog, welcomed the EBU's decision, stating that Israel 'deserves to be represented on every stage around the world'. The rule changes were approved by 65% of delegates, with 23% against and 10% abstaining.
