Eurovision Faces Boycott Threats as Israel’s Participation Sparks Outrage

The upcoming Eurovision Song Contest in 2026 is facing substantial backlash as several countries threaten to boycott the event if Israel is permitted to compete. This situation follows a statement issued on September 11 by RTÉ, Ireland’s national broadcaster, which declared that Ireland would find it “unconscionable” to participate should Israel be allowed entry, citing the “ongoing and appalling loss of lives in Gaza.”

According to RTÉ, concerns regarding Israel’s inclusion were raised during a meeting in July among members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). The broadcaster emphasized that, unless there are significant changes, Ireland would withdraw from the competition, which is set to take place in Vienna. The deadline for countries to confirm their participation has been extended to December 2023.

Following Ireland’s announcement, Dutch broadcaster Avrotros expressed a similar stance, indicating that the Netherlands would also withdraw from Eurovision 2026 if Israel is included. Other nations, including Slovenia, Iceland, and Spain, have joined the chorus of discontent, suggesting they might boycott the event as well.

EBU Responds to Boycott Concerns

In light of the escalating situation, a spokesperson for the EBU acknowledged the concerns from participating countries but clarified that “no decisions” about Israel’s participation had been made. Rumors circulated over the weekend that the EBU proposed Israel compete under a neutral flag or temporarily withdraw from the competition. However, this was firmly denied by the EBU, which stated, “The EBU has not made any proposals to Kan regarding participation in next year’s Eurovision Song Contest.”

Eurovision’s director, Martin Green, emphasized the importance of respecting each member’s decision regarding their participation. He noted, “Broadcasters have until mid-December to confirm if they wish to take part in next year’s event in Vienna.” The EBU is currently gathering feedback from its members to navigate the complexities of participation amid geopolitical tensions.

Israel has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest for several years, but its inclusion has sparked significant controversy. In 2024, a notable number of fans chose to boycott the contest, and numerous artists faced criticism for not withdrawing in protest. Ahead of the 2025 competition, over 70 former contestants signed an open letter urging that Israel and its broadcaster Kan be barred from participating.

Context of the Ongoing Conflict

The controversy surrounding Israel’s participation comes against the backdrop of escalating humanitarian concerns in Gaza. According to the British Red Cross, approximately 2.1 million people in the region are facing extreme hunger. Additionally, the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) confirmed in August that Gaza is experiencing a famine.

Earlier this month, the International Association of Genocide Scholars stated that Israel’s military actions in Gaza meet the United Nations’ definition of genocide. This assertion has been contested by the British government, which has stated that it has “not concluded” that such actions constitute genocide.

Last week, a significant number of film industry professionals, including notable figures such as Joe Locke and Ayo Edebiri, signed a pledge committing to refuse collaboration with Israeli film institutions deemed complicit in “genocide and apartheid against the Palestinian people.”

As the situation develops, the future of Eurovision 2026 hangs in the balance, with potential implications not only for the contest but also for international relations within the broadcasting community. The EBU continues to navigate these complex dynamics while aiming to uphold the spirit of the competition.