Three European nations have officially withdrawn from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest after the event's governing body confirmed Israel's participation. The national broadcasters of Ireland, Spain, and the Netherlands declared they will neither compete in nor broadcast the competition, citing the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Broadcasters Take a Stand Following EBU Vote
The decision was finalised on Thursday 4 December 2025, following a vote at the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) winter general assembly in Geneva. The assembly upheld Israel's right to compete, prompting the immediate boycott from the three countries. Slovenia, which had previously threatened to withdraw, was not listed among the confirmed boycotting nations in the latest announcement.
In a powerful statement, Ireland's national broadcaster, RTE, declared its participation "unconscionable given the appalling loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there". The broadcaster also expressed deep concern over the killing of journalists in Gaza and the denial of access for international reporters to the territory.
Threats Realised After September Ultimatum
This move fulfils a threat made in September 2025, when Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia jointly warned they would pull out of the contest unless Israel was excluded due to the war in Gaza. The controversy draws a direct parallel with the EBU's previous decision to ban Russia from Eurovision following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, a contrast highlighted by protesters and critics.
The 2026 contest is scheduled to be held in Vienna, Austria, after Austrian act JJ won the 2025 competition with his song 'Wasted Love'. The event in Basel for the 2025 final was already marred by pro-Palestinian demonstrations protesting Israel's inclusion, foreshadowing the current diplomatic and cultural rift.
Implications for Europe's Premier Music Event
The coordinated boycott by three significant Eurovision nations represents one of the most substantial political challenges to the contest's ethos of non-political unity in its history. It places the EBU in a difficult position, balancing its stated principles against mounting international pressure and the precedent set by Russia's exclusion.
The absence of Ireland, a record seven-time winner of the contest, alongside other major players like Spain and the Netherlands, is expected to significantly alter the tone and competitive landscape of the 2026 event in Vienna. The situation continues to develop, with further statements from other national broadcasters anticipated.
