Eurovision Faces Boycotts as Countries Withdraw Support for Israel

The upcoming Eurovision Song Contest, scheduled for May 2026 in Vienna, is under significant scrutiny as four countries have announced their intention to boycott Israel’s participation. This decision has raised concerns about the annual event’s reputation as a celebration of unity and music.

At a meeting of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in Geneva, members concluded that no vote was necessary regarding Israel’s inclusion in the contest. Following this, public broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia swiftly declared their boycotts. Iceland is also contemplating its position, reflecting a broader discontent regarding Israel’s role amid ongoing tensions related to the conflict in Gaza.

The call for Israel’s exclusion intensified following accusations of using the contest for political purposes and allegations regarding the manipulation of the televoting system. Spain’s public broadcaster RTVE articulated its stance, asserting that the competition had become entangled in geopolitical issues. RTVE President José Pablo López stated on social media, “What happened at the EBU assembly confirms that Eurovision is not a song contest but a festival dominated by geopolitical interests.”

Impact of Boycotts on Participation

The 2025 edition of Eurovision featured 37 participating countries, with JJ, an Austrian operatic singer, winning the competition with “Wasted Love.” Eurovision Director Martin Green anticipates that the number of broadcasters will decline to around 35 for the 2026 contest. Green noted that approximately five countries are particularly adamant about Israel’s exclusion. “I very much hope that those few broadcasters who feel they can’t be there next year will return back to us in 2027,” he remarked.

During deliberations, EBU members engaged in a “full, frank, honest, and quite moving debate,” ultimately expressing a collective desire to maintain Eurovision as a neutral cultural event, free from political manipulation. Roland Weissmann, Director of Austrian host broadcaster ORF, indicated that at least three new broadcasters are interested in participating in 2026, suggesting a potential shift in the event’s landscape.

Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin expressed understanding for the RTE boycott, describing it as “an act of solidarity with those journalists who were killed” in Gaza. He emphasized the vital role journalists play in informing the world about the ongoing situation.

In contrast, Belgian broadcaster RTBF has opted to remain involved in Eurovision, with Chief Jean-Paul Philippot stating that their participation would carry a commitment to denounce obstacles to freedom of information. Belgium’s Media Minister Jacqueline Galant reinforced the idea that culture should serve as a bridge between peoples, especially in times of political discord.

Responses from Political Leaders

While some nations have chosen to withdraw, key players in the competition have reaffirmed their support. The office of Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, emphasized that Eurovision is intended as a “non-political celebration of music and culture.” Similarly, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot expressed satisfaction that Eurovision had not succumbed to external pressures.

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul echoed these sentiments, asserting that culture should unify rather than divide. Local resident Yovel Naim from Tel Aviv commented on the controversy, noting that while the event is ostensibly about music, political dynamics inevitably influence its proceedings. “I was pleasantly surprised that they chose not to kick us out,” she remarked, reflecting the complex interplay of culture and politics surrounding the contest.

As Eurovision navigates these turbulent waters ahead of the 2026 event, the implications of these boycotts will likely resonate far beyond the stage, highlighting the intersection of culture and global politics in an increasingly interconnected world.