Several countries have announced a boycott of the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest scheduled for next year, following the decision to allow Israel to participate. Among the nations declaring their withdrawal are Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia. This decision stems from concerns regarding the humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and allegations of unfair practices related to voting.
During a recent general assembly held by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which comprises 56 broadcasting organizations, members deliberated on Israel’s participation after multiple countries called for its exclusion. Despite these calls, the assembly focused primarily on a new package of measures aimed at enhancing transparency and limiting governmental influence over voting outcomes, rather than voting on Israel’s status.
The Netherlands was one of the first to declare its boycott. The Dutch broadcaster, Avrotros, stated that Israel’s participation “cannot be reconciled with the public values that are fundamental” to their organization. Similarly, Radio Televisión Española (RTVE) confirmed in September that Spain would withdraw from Eurovision if Israel remained in the competition. RTVE also announced it would not broadcast the semi-finals or finals of the event.
Spain has been at the forefront of advocating for Israel’s exclusion from the contest, calling for a secret ballot on its participation, a proposal that was ultimately dismissed. In a statement regarding its decision, Raidió Teilifís Éireann (RTE) emphasized that Irish participation “is inconceivable given the horrific loss of life in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis that continues to put so many civilian lives at risk.” RTE also expressed deep concern over the targeted killing of journalists in Gaza during the conflict and the ongoing denial of access for international journalists to the territory.
Israel has denied accusations of deliberately targeting journalists or obstructing humanitarian aid. While Eurovision organizers aim to prioritize music over politics, the event has repeatedly been impacted by global events. Notably, Russia was excluded from the competition in 2022 following the onset of its invasion of Ukraine.
The current situation has drawn widespread criticism from pro-Palestinian demonstrators, who protested against Israel during the last two Eurovision events held in Basel, Switzerland, in May and in Malmö, Sweden, in 2024.
The EBU announced that the new regulations are intended to strengthen “transparency and trust,” allowing all countries, including Israel, to participate. Members have until mid-December to confirm their participation for next year, with a final list expected to be published by Christmas.
