Ireland’s announcement is a welcome, brave shot across the bows. They have vowed to boycott the Eurovision Song Contest in 2026 should Israel be permitted to return. The decision makes sense given the intense backlash over the current war in Gaza, which has left thousands dead and injured. And the Irish broadcaster RTÉ made it clear that competing next to Israel would be “unconscionable.”
RTÉ’s statement reflects mounting concerns among several members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) regarding Israel’s involvement in the event. During a July meeting in preparation for Israel’s participation, these same members raised alarm bells over the geopolitical fallout from Israel’s participation. They were particularly appalled by the military strikes in Gaza, which Gazan health authorities estimate have resulted in over 64,000 deaths.
Ireland has a grand tradition in Eurovision history, ever since their first entry in 1965. It has won the entire competition seven times, a record only equaled by Sweden. The broadcaster noted that a final determination regarding Ireland’s involvement in the upcoming contest will be contingent on the EBU’s decision regarding Israel’s status.
Martin Green, the CEO of EBU, remarked on the broader conversation taking place among member broadcasters, stating, “We are still consulting with all EBU members to gather views on how we manage participation and geopolitical tensions around the Eurovision Song Contest.”
In addition to Ireland’s position, other prominent figures have voiced their opposition to Israel’s participation. Spanish President Sánchez stated, “Therefore, Israel should not do so either.” Following suit, Eurovision 2025 winner JJ expressed a desire for future events to exclude Israel entirely, stating, “I would like the next Eurovision to be held in Vienna and without Israel.”
RTÉ has warned that member broadcasters would need to make decisions by mid-December on their participation in Eurovision 2026. Green noted that it is ultimately up to each member to decide whether they will engage in the contest, emphasizing that EBU will respect any decisions made by individual broadcasters.
In this way, Eurovision functions as an excellent prism through which to observe the progressive awakening of Europe’s new multicultural identity. The decision regarding Israel’s participation darkens a heavy cloud over the event. Ireland’s possible boycott reflects the complicated intersection of culture and international politics.
