Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands and Slovenia will boycott the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, after it was decided Israel could compete.
They were among a number of countries who had called for Israel to be excluded over the war in Gaza and accusations of unfair voting practices.
But at a meeting in Geneva where a vote was held on new safeguards, a large majority of members agreed there was no need for a further vote on participation. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) stated Eurovision 2026 could proceed as planned.
Spanish broadcaster RTVE, which had led calls for a secret ballot on the issue, expressed its distrust of the festival's organisation following the decision.
Ireland's RTÉ emphasized that participation at this time is unconscionable considering the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Martin Green, director of the Eurovision Song Contest, stated he was pleased that the members had the opportunity to openly discuss Israel's participation, aiming for a neutral and culturally respectful contest.
The controversy has sparked a significant rift within the Eurovision community, with certain broadcasters like the Dutch Avrotros and Spanish RTVE making clear their commitment to ethical broadcasting standards.
The EBU asserts that the contest is meant to be a platform for cultural unity, despite tensions that continue to affect the event's organization.
