Netherlands Becomes Latest Country To Announce That They Will Not Participate In Eurovision 2026 If Israel Is Allowed To Compete
The Netherlands has become the latest country to threaten a boycott of the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if Israel is allowed to compete. Public broadcaster AVROTROS said it “can no longer justify Israel’s participation in the current situation,” referencing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, restrictions on press freedom, and what it described as “proven evidence of interference by the Israeli government” in last year’s contest. It accused Israel of using Eurovision as a “political instrument,” which goes against the contest’s founding values of peace and unity.
This follows Ireland’s announcement, with RTÉ saying it would also step back if Israel is included, calling its participation “unconscionable given the ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza.” Both broadcasters pointed to the deaths of journalists and the Israeli ban on international media in Gaza as further reasons for their stance. Others, including broadcasters from Spain, Slovenia, and Iceland, are also reportedly considering a boycott.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has not yet made a final decision on Israel’s involvement. The deadline for broadcasters to confirm participation is mid-December. Until then, AVROTROS said it will continue preparations but made clear: “Should the EBU decide not to admit Israel, AVROTROS will gladly take part next year.”
