Israel’s involvement in the Eurovision Song Contest is under intense scrutiny as member broadcasters prepare for a two-day meeting in Geneva, starting on November 2, 2023. This debate comes in response to escalating calls for a boycott of Israel’s participation, primarily driven by concerns over its military actions in Gaza.
Several countries, including Iceland, Ireland, Spain, and the Netherlands, have indicated that they may withdraw from the 2026 contest if Israel remains involved. Other nations such as Belgium, Finland, and Sweden have also expressed intentions to reconsider their participation based on the situation in Gaza. The Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS has been vocal in its condemnation, citing a “serious violation of press freedom” by Israel and alleging interference in the previous contest where Israel placed second.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which oversees the popular competition, had intended to hold a vote on this matter in November. However, following the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas announced on October 10, the EBU postponed the decision until its ordinary general assembly on December 4 and 5. The organization subsequently modified its voting procedures, aiming to enhance “trust and transparency” among its members and potentially avoiding a divisive vote.
Broadcasters Weigh Options
During the upcoming Geneva meeting, broadcasters will evaluate whether the EBU’s new measures are adequate or if a vote on Israel’s participation is still warranted. The public broadcaster ORF in Austria, which will host the 2026 contest, hopes to reach a consensus that allows for maximum participation. In contrast, Iceland’s RUV has announced its intention to call for Israel’s expulsion before deciding on its own involvement.
Spain’s RTVE has reiterated its commitment to boycotting the contest if Israel is allowed to participate. RTVE president, Jose Pablo Lopez, remarked, “Israel has politically used the contest, has tried to influence the outcome, and has not been sanctioned for this conduct.” Slovenia’s public broadcaster is also poised to abstain from the event, as indicated by a recently approved budget that lacks funding for participation.
RTV Slovenija chief Natasa Gorscak suggested that if a vote occurs at the EBU General Assembly resulting in Israel’s exclusion, Slovenia would reconsider its participation.
Historical Context of Exclusions
The EBU’s recent changes come after Israeli acts received minimal support from professional juries in previous contests, despite substantial backing from public votes. This discrepancy notably propelled Eden Golan to fifth place in Malmö, Sweden, in 2024, and Yuval Raphael to second place in Basel, Switzerland, in 2023.
If Israel is ultimately excluded from the contest, it would not be the first instance of a broadcaster facing such a ban. In 2022, Russia was barred following its invasion of Ukraine, while Belarus was excluded in 2021 after the controversial re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko.
As the meeting unfolds in Geneva, the implications for the Eurovision Song Contest and its reputation as a platform for artistic expression amid geopolitical tensions will come into sharper focus.
