Here’s why Ireland is boycotting Eurovision
Ireland will not compete in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest. The nation joins Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia in a boycott after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) affirmed Israel’s eligibility to participate. The decision has fractured the international music competition, which is watched by over 150 million people annually.
These countries were part of a larger group that had pushed for Israel’s exclusion from the contest, citing the ongoing war in Gaza and allegations of unfair voting practices in the previous competition. Their calls for a vote on the matter were ultimately sidelined.
A Contentious Vote in Geneva
The issue came to a head at a pivotal EBU meeting in Geneva. Approximately 50 public broadcasters, including the BBC, gathered to decide the future of the contest. Instead of a direct vote on Israel’s participation, members were asked to approve a new set of rules. These new regulations were designed to prevent governments from organizing voting campaigns for their own artists, a direct response to accusations that Israel had improperly boosted its 2025 entrant, Yuval Raphael.
The vote was a package deal. Sources indicate that backing the new voting safeguards was tied to a clause agreeing not to proceed with a separate vote on Israel’s eligibility. A “large majority” of members approved the measures, effectively locking in Israel’s participation for 2026. The EBU stated that this vote means all members who agree to the new rules are eligible to take part.
The Rationale Behind the Boycott
For several broadcasters, this outcome was unacceptable. The decision to withdraw was swift and pointed. Ireland’s national broadcaster, RTÉ, explained its position was a matter of conscience.
“Our participation remains unconscionable given the appalling loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there which continues to put the lives of so many civilians at risk.”
Spain’s RTVE, which had been a leading voice for a secret ballot on the issue, expressed a complete loss of confidence in the organization. The broadcaster announced it would not only withdraw its artist but also refuse to broadcast the 2026 semi-finals and final. The Dutch broadcaster, Avrotros, echoed the sentiment, stating that “participation under the current circumstances is incompatible with the public values that are essential to us.” Slovenia’s RTV confirmed its position also “remains unchanged,” citing a commitment to “ethical principles” and the need for equal standards for all participants.
A Deeply Divided Community
The EBU’s decision, while alienating some, was welcomed by others. Germany, which had previously threatened to leave if Israel were removed, praised the outcome. Its broadcaster, ARD, said it was “looking forward to participating” and embracing the event as “a celebration of cultural diversity and solidarity.” The BBC also supported the “collective decision made by members.”
Israeli officials celebrated the result. President Isaac Herzog called it “an appreciated gesture of solidarity, brotherhood, and co-operation, symbolising a victory over those who seek to silence Israel and spread hatred.” The CEO of Israel’s broadcaster, KAN, framed the attempt to disqualify them as a cultural boycott that could harm other nations in the future.
Martin Green, the director of the Eurovision Song Contest, defended the process, noting the “full, frank and honest” debate that took place. He emphasized the members’ belief that the contest “shouldn’t be used as a political theatre” and must maintain neutrality. This view is in direct opposition to the boycotting nations, who see participation as a political act in itself.
The withdrawal of Spain is particularly significant. As one of Eurovision’s “Big Five,” along with France, Germany, Italy, and the UK, its broadcaster is a major financial contributor to the EBU, and its artist is guaranteed a spot in the final. The future remains uncertain, with broadcasters in Belgium and Iceland yet to announce their final decisions, leaving the 70th anniversary of the song contest under a cloud of controversy.