Several countries, including Spain and Ireland, have announced plans to boycott the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest in 2024 due to Israel‘s participation. Other nations joining the boycott include the Netherlands and Slovenia, responding to calls for Israel’s exclusion stemming from the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and allegations of unfair voting practices, according to the BBC.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which oversees Eurovision and comprises broadcasters from 56 countries, addressed Israel’s participation during its general assembly held on November 1, 2023. Despite numerous requests from member nations to consider Israel’s exclusion, the assembly voted on a package of new measures and rules aimed at reducing government influence on results rather than directly addressing Israel’s status.
The Netherlands was one of the first countries to declare its boycott. The Dutch broadcaster Avrotros stated that Israel’s participation “cannot be reconciled with the core public values” of the organization. Similarly, Radio Televisión Española (RTVE) revealed that Spain had decided to withdraw from Eurovision if Israel was allowed to compete. RTVE also confirmed it would not broadcast the semi-finals and finals of the contest.
Spain has been at the forefront of calls to exclude Israel, advocating for a secret vote on its eligibility, a proposal that was ultimately rejected. In a statement regarding its decision, RTÉ, the Irish public broadcaster, expressed that “Irish participation is unimaginable given the horrific loss of life in Gaza and the ongoing humanitarian crisis” that continues to endanger civilians. RTÉ also highlighted concerns over the targeting of journalists in Gaza during the conflict and the continued denial of access for international media to the region.
Israel has denied allegations of intentionally targeting journalists and blocking humanitarian aid. While Eurovision organizers aim to prioritize music over political issues, the contest has frequently intersected with global events. For instance, Russia was banned from participating in 2022 following its invasion of Ukraine. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has prompted pro-Palestinian protests at the last two Eurovision events held in Basel, Switzerland in May and Malmö, Sweden in 2024.
The EBU has indicated that new regulations are intended to enhance “transparency and trust,” ensuring that all countries, including Israel, are allowed to participate. Member nations have until mid-December to confirm their participation for the next contest, with the final list of entrants expected to be announced by Christmas.
