Eurovision, that vibrant festival that unites Europe (and beyond) every year through music and entertainment, is in a delicate moment. Beyond the catchy songs and flashy outfits, politics has once again crept onto the stage, threatening to leave some of the most anticipated seats empty for the 2026 edition. The possible participation of Israel is generating an intense debate, leading several European Union countries to a firm position: they will not participate if Israel is part of the festival. But what is really behind these considerations?
A boycott in the making: the countries that raise their voices with a clear condition
At the center of the controversy is the current situation in Gaza. The escalation of the Israeli offensive has generated strong rejection in part of the international community, and this discontent has found echo in the cultural sphere, even reaching an event as apparently apolitical as Eurovision.
Some of the countries that have raised their voices most forcefully, with an explicit condition of non-participation, are:
- Ireland: The Irish national broadcaster, RTE, has been categorical. They have stated that Ireland will not participate if Israel does so, calling the situation in Gaza “unacceptable” due to the continued tragic loss of life. In addition, they have expressed deep concern about the selective murder of journalists and the denial of access to international informants in the territory, as well as the difficult situation of the hostages. For Ireland, participating alongside Israel would be seen as a normalization of a situation they consider unsustainable.
- Spain: From the Ministry of Culture, Minister Ernest Urtasun has publicly opened the door to the country’s withdrawal if Israel is not excluded. Although the final decision rests with public broadcaster RTVE, Urtasun has emphasized that Spain had already formally requested the exclusion of Israel. He has warned that the government would consider “measures… if it is not expelled”, arguing that allowing Israel’s presence in an international forum such as Eurovision would imply “normalizing” its role in the midst of the offensive in Gaza. It is a position that shows the firmness of the Spanish government on this matter.
- Slovenia: Slovenia’s public broadcaster, RTV Slovenija, has also announced that the country will not participate in Eurovision 2026 if Israel is allowed to return. This move, framed as an act of solidarity with Palestine, reflects a position already expressed at the General Assembly of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in July. Slovenia has maintained a consistent stance in this regard.
Why is Eurovision, a cultural event, involved in politics?
Eurovision, although conceived as a musical festival, it has always had a geopolitical dimension. The very existence of the EBU, which brings together radio and television stations from countries in the European Broadcasting Area (which includes Israel), already laid a foundation for these dynamics. Throughout its history, the festival has been the scene of protests, veiled messages and, sometimes, even direct positions.
The conflict in Gaza has provoked an unprecedented wave of international condemnation, and civil society, along with some institutions, is looking for ways to express its rejection. The pressure on public broadcasters to act accordingly is immense. They consider that Israel’s participation in an event of this magnitude could be interpreted as an endorsement or lack of condemnation of its actions, which goes against the values of peace and understanding that, in theory, the festival promotes.
The role of the EBU: between neutrality and pressure
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) finds itself at a crossroads. On the one hand, it maintains its “apolitical” stance, arguing that Eurovision is a musical event and should not be used as a political platform. On the other hand, the pressure from several national stations, and public opinion in general, is increasing.
The EBU has extended the deadline for broadcasters to confirm their participation until mid-December. The key decision will be made during its next assembly in Geneva on December 4-5, where a vote on Israel’s eligibility is expected. Will the EBU maintain its position or give in to the demands of the countries that threaten a boycott?
The future of Eurovision 2026 is uncertain. What is clear is that the voices of protest are increasingly louder, and the EBU is facing one of the most complex decisions in its recent history. The festival that prides itself on its diversity and its ability to unite could find itself fragmented by a political reality that does not seem willing to stay off the stage.
