The Eurovision Song Contest is facing an unprecedented crisis as several European broadcasters threaten to boycott the 2026 competition if Israel is permitted to participate. The dispute, rooted in Israel’s military actions in Gaza, has escalated in recent months, culminating in a firm commitment from the Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS to withdraw if the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) allows Israel’s inclusion.
AVROTROS announced its decision on , citing concerns over “human suffering,” “the suppression of press freedom,” and “political interference” as reasons for the potential boycott. The broadcaster stated it can “no longer justify Israel’s participation under the current circumstances.” This stance aligns with the organization’s core values of peace, equality, and respect, according to their official statement.
The concerns regarding press freedom specifically center on what AVROTROS describes as a “serious violation” – the restriction of independent international reporting and the deaths of journalists in Gaza. The broadcaster also alleges “proven interference” by the Israeli government during the previous contest, specifically citing lobbying efforts to secure votes during the 2025 competition where Israel finished second.
The Netherlands is not alone in its opposition. Ireland, Iceland, and Spain have also indicated they may withdraw from the 2026 contest if Israel participates. Belgium, Finland, and Sweden are reportedly considering similar action. This widespread discontent places significant pressure on the EBU, the organization responsible for overseeing the Eurovision Song Contest.
The EBU initially planned to address the issue with a vote at a meeting in November , but postponed the decision following a brief ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas on . The EBU then announced changes to its voting rules in an attempt to alleviate concerns and foster “trust and transparency,” but it remains unclear whether these measures will be sufficient to appease dissenting broadcasters. A two-day meeting of member broadcasters in Geneva, beginning on , was held to debate the matter.
The situation is particularly complex for Austria, which is slated to host the 2026 contest. ORF, the Austrian public broadcaster, has expressed hope for a consensus that would allow for the participation of as many countries as possible. However, other broadcasters have questioned whether the EBU’s revised voting rules adequately address the fundamental concerns surrounding Israel’s participation.
AVROTROS has clarified that its preparations for Eurovision 2026 will continue until a final decision is made by the EBU. The EBU is expected to discuss Israel’s participation at its General Assembly in . If the EBU decides to exclude Israel, the Netherlands will participate. However, AVROTROS has made it unequivocally clear that it will not participate if Israel is admitted under the current conditions.
The potential boycott raises questions about the future of Eurovision and its commitment to remaining an apolitical event. AVROTROS argues that the current circumstances surrounding Israel’s actions are fundamentally at odds with the contest’s stated values and the principles of public broadcasting. The broadcaster’s stance reflects a growing sentiment among some European broadcasters that maintaining the integrity of the competition requires addressing the ethical implications of allowing a country embroiled in conflict to participate.
The Dutch broadcaster’s decision has prompted reactions within the Netherlands. Commentator Cornald Maas, who typically provides commentary for the Eurovision Song Contest, will not be traveling to Vienna for the 2026 event if AVROTROS follows through with its boycott. However, he indicated he will still watch the competition. The NPO, the Dutch public broadcasting organization, has requested that NOS and NTR take over the broadcasting duties should AVROTROS withdraw.
The outcome of the EBU’s deliberations will have far-reaching consequences for the Eurovision Song Contest, potentially reshaping its landscape and raising fundamental questions about its role in a politically charged world. The contest, traditionally seen as a celebration of unity and cultural exchange, now finds itself at the center of a complex geopolitical debate.
