Eurovision’s Israel problem just got bigger
Eurovision is supposed to be a friendly talent competition among nations. But whenever you have countries competing with each other, politics will inevitably be introduced. Russia, for example, was kicked out after it invaded Ukraine. That was an easy decision.
Israel has become another problem thanks to what’s going on in Gaza. This was an issue in 2025 and looks to become even worse in 2026 as Ireland, The Netherlands, Spain, and Slovenia say they will boycott Eurovision if Israel isn’t banned.
Spain is one of the five biggest financial contributors to Eurovision. Ireland has won more than any other country except Sweden. The Netherlands was a founding member of Eurovision in 1956. And Slovenia is a success story from Eastern Europe.
There’s more, too. Sweden, Finland, Iceland, and Belgium are making noises about doing the same thing. However, Austria–the host country–says it will bow out if Israel isn’t included. Germany would also boycott the event.
Other countries, the UK included, continue to support the European Broadcasting Union’s decision. It has ultimate control over everything. Things have to be sorted quickly because the 2026 edition playdowns begin shortly. The final is scheduled for Austria in May. Did I mention that a favourite Eurovision slogan is “United by Music?”
Eurovision has had to deal with boycotts in the past in his 70-year history. There was the Greece/Turkey issues of 1975 and 1976 over issues in Cyprus. Armenia didn’t participate in 2012 because it opposed Eurovision being held in Azerbaijan. Spain was the source of tension when dictator Francisco Franco was in charge.
