Eurovision 2026 on verge of collapse? Participating countries massively withdrawing
Eurovision at the center of a scandal (photo: Getty Images)
The Eurovision Song Contest, scheduled to take place in Vienna in 2026, is under serious threat. Several participating countries have announced a possible boycott.
RBC-Ukraine explains which countries are refusing to take part.
Who is boycotting Eurovision 2026 and why
The reason for the refusal to participate in the contest is Israel’s aggression in Gaza.
Some countries are demanding that representatives of Israel be barred from taking part.
If this does not happen, they promise not to join the competition, which threatens both the contest and its reputation.
Which countries are boycotting Israel at Eurovision 2026
Ireland
The country will not participate in Eurovision 2026 if the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) does not decide to suspend Israel.
The statement cites the war in Gaza, the killings of journalists, media censorship, and the critical situation with hostages as the reasons for the boycott.
Ireland at Eurovision 2025 (screenshot)
Netherlands
Representatives of the country have promised to withdraw from the contest if Israel is allowed to participate.
The reason cited is also the suffering of people in Gaza.
The statement said that human suffering, suppression of press freedom, and political interference contradict the values of public broadcasting.
Netherlands at Eurovision 2025 (screenshot)
Spain
The issue of Israel’s participation in the contest was raised by Spanish representatives immediately after this year’s Eurovision ended.
In their statement, they highlighted the country’s negative impact on the development of the music festival. They also called for a review of the voting system to "reduce the influence of preferences related to war or other armed conflicts."
In this year’s contest, Israel took second place overall and first place according to the public vote.
Spain at Eurovision 2025 (screenshot)
Slovenia
The country expressed concern over Israel’s participation, as well as the transparency of the voting. Moreover, they stated their intention to "consider further participation if the European Broadcasting Union does not find a solution."
Position of the European Broadcasting Union
The EBU confirmed that it is consulting with national broadcasters regarding the “geopolitical tensions” surrounding the contest.
"EBU understands the concerns and deeply held views around the ongoing conflict in the Middle East… It is up to each member to decide if they want to take part in the contest, and we would respect any decision broadcasters make," said Martin Green, the contest director.
Countries have until December 2025 to decide on their participation without any penalties. In the meantime, Israel will take part in the contest.
Sources: the websites RTVE, RTV SLO, The Guardian, and AVROTROS Instagram.
