Several countries boycott Eurovision amid dispute over Israel’s participation

The Eurovision Song Contest faces one of its most serious crises in decades after four countries — Ireland, the Netherlands, Spain, and Slovenia — withdrew in protest over Israel’s continued participation amid the war in Gaza. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) voted to tighten rules on campaigning and public voting, indirectly affirming Israel’s right to compete. This decision was backed by 65% of EBU members, though it triggered dissent. Spanish broadcaster RTVE condemned the decision, calling it the result of political and commercial bias, while Ireland cited moral grounds for its withdrawal. Other countries such as Iceland, Finland, and Belgium have not fully confirmed their participation, although some plan to remain if enough others do.

The controversy has exposed tension between the promotion of free expression and geopolitical realities. Some EBU members stressed the importance of protecting independent public broadcasters, noting that Israel’s Kan functions separately from its government and plays a role in safeguarding media independence. Despite this defense, critics argue that Eurovision has strayed from its founding motto, ‘United by Music.’ The loss of major financial contributors like Spain raises questions about future budgets. Analysts and scholars warn that the event, though wounded, will survive — possibly with fewer participants and reduced spectacle. The 2026 edition in Vienna is expected to feature around 35 countries, though the long-term unity of Eurovision now hangs in the balance.