Several European Nations Withdraw from Eurovision 2026 Over Israel’s Participation

Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia have announced their withdrawal from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in protest against Israel being allowed to compete despite ongoing war in Gaza and allegations of voting misconduct. The decision followed a tense meeting of about 50 broadcasters within the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in Geneva. Broadcasters had pushed for a secret ballot on Israel’s participation, but their request was denied. The EBU instead introduced new voting rules to curb organized national voting campaigns, tying acceptance of those rules to participation eligibility.

Irish broadcaster RTÉ described joining Eurovision under current conditions as ‘unconscionable’ due to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Spanish broadcaster RTVE, a member of Eurovision’s ‘Big Five,’ reaffirmed its earlier stance that Spain would not take part if Israel remained. Slovenia’s RTV and the Netherlands’ Avrotros echoed similar sentiments, citing ethical standards and public values. In contrast, broadcasters from Germany and several Nordic countries expressed support for the EBU’s approach, emphasizing neutrality and inclusivity in the contest.

EBU officials, including contest director Martin Green, insisted the decision was about keeping Eurovision free from political influence. Israel’s President Isaac Herzog welcomed the ruling as a ‘gesture of solidarity and cultural cooperation.’ However, the boycott reflects a growing division within the Eurovision community, highlighting the deepening rift between artistic neutrality and political accountability amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.