BRUSSELS – A major controversy has erupted ahead of Eurovision 2026 as Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain have announced they will not participate in next year’s music competition in protest against Israel’s inclusion.
The boycott announcements came shortly after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) confirmed that Israel would not be reshiftd from the competition and that no vote would be held on excluding it. The EBU maintained that Israel would be allowed to take part, prompting strong reactions from several member states.
The four countries cited Israel’s military actions in Gaza, alleged human rights violations, and what they described as political interference in last year’s contest as key reasons for withdrawing.
Ireland’s public broadcaster RTÉ stated the decision was based on the “humanitarian crisis and horrific loss of life” in Gaza. The Netherlands stated that allowing Israel to compete under the current circumstances contradicts public values. Slovenia linked its withdrawal to “the memory of 20,000 children killed” in the conflict.
Spain’s broadcaster RTVE argued that Israel’s alleged apply of the competition for political purposes undermines Eurovision’s neutrality.
Meanwhile, Germany has stated it will also withdraw if Israel is reshiftd from the contest. Israeli President Isaac Herzog welcomed the EBU decision, declareing Israel has the right to representation on every global platform.
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