Broadcasters from Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland have announced their intention to withdraw from the upcoming 2026 Eurovision Song Contest. These decisions follow the official confirmation of Israel's participation in the event. The broadcasters have cited various reasons for their withdrawals, including humanitarian concerns, organizational issues, and impacts on public values.
Nations Announce Withdrawals
Five European national broadcasters have declared their withdrawal from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest. Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia were the first to make their announcements, followed by Iceland. All five nations have indicated that their decisions are in response to the confirmed participation of Israel in the competition.
Broadcasters' Stated Rationales
Each withdrawing broadcaster provided specific reasons for their decision:
- Ireland (RTE): The national broadcaster indicated that its continued participation was deemed inappropriate given the reported loss of life and humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
- Netherlands (Avrotros): A statement from the Dutch broadcaster asserted that involvement under the prevailing conditions conflicted with its fundamental public values.
- Spain (RTVE): The Spanish broadcaster confirmed its withdrawal, referencing a prior board agreement from September to exit the contest if Israel were a participant. RTVE also stated it would not broadcast the 2026 Eurovision final or its preliminary semi-finals. The broadcaster further noted that it had previously requested a secret ballot regarding Israel's participation, a request it stated was denied by the organizers. RTVE added that this denial increased its concerns about the festival's organization and signaled political pressure.
- Slovenia (RTV): Slovenia's broadcaster reiterated that its position remained unchanged and that recent adjustments to contest rules did not alter its viewpoint. RTV Slovenia emphasized its dedication to ethical principles and its expectation of consistent rules and standards for all European Broadcasting Union (EBU) members and participating countries.
- Iceland (RÚV): Iceland's national broadcaster released a statement explaining that the "participation of Israeli national broadcaster, KAN, in the contest has created disunity among both members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and the general public." Prior to its official announcement, Iceland had indicated a potential withdrawal pending a review and discussion by its board of directors.
Context of Israel's Participation
Prior to the confirmation of Israel's participation, several countries had called for a vote on Israel's involvement in the competition. Event organizers approved a new set of rules, which they stated were intended to safeguard the integrity of the competition. Nations advocating for Israel's exclusion had cited the humanitarian situation in Gaza and concerns regarding voting practices. Israel was previously represented by singer Yuval Raphael in a recent Eurovision contest.
Response from Israel
President Isaac Herzog of Israel publicly commended the decision to allow Israel's continued participation. He characterized the decision as a gesture of solidarity and cooperation, interpreting it as a successful stand against attempts to silence Israel. President Herzog expressed satisfaction with Israel's ongoing involvement in Eurovision, conveying a hope that the competition would continue to foster culture, art, and international understanding. He also affirmed that Israel merits representation on global stages.