Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia will boycott the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, after it was decided Israel could compete.
These nations have voiced their disapproval after calling for Israel to be excluded over the ongoing war in Gaza and rising accusations regarding unfair voting practices. During a recent EBU meeting in Geneva, a vote held concluded with a majority supporting Israel's inclusion without needing further deliberation.
Spanish broadcaster RTVE expressed heightened distrust towards the organization of the festival after the announcement, stating the decision undermined their integrity.
RTÉ, Ireland's national broadcaster, highlighted the gravity of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, deeming participation in the contest as immoral given the current circumstances.
Broadcasters from other contesting nations articulated strong public values that necessitated their withdrawal under such conditions. The divide has intensified within the Eurovision community, prompting various countries to reconsider their positions regarding participation.
RTVE also announced they would not broadcast Eurovision 2026 and Spanish singer Melody, among others, have been vocal about their stance. The ongoing situation has raised questions about the future of Eurovision, particularly as it has typically been seen as a platform for unity and cultural exchange.
Despite the boycott, some countries pledged support for the EBU's efforts to enhance the contest's voting integrity following allegations of manipulation in favor of Israel's act this prior year. Martin Green, ESC director, emphasized the importance of neutrality within the contest, while others like the BBC reaffirmed their backing of the collective decision.
The episode reflects broader debates about cultural representation within politically-charged contexts and raises concerns about future inclusivity in globally-watched events like Eurovision.
