Ireland has announced its decision to boycott the Eurovision Song Contest for the second consecutive year due to Israel’s involvement, as confirmed by the country’s national broadcaster on Thursday. RTE stated that they will not be sending a representative to the 2027 event in Bulgaria and will not air the show in protest against the “tragic and continuous loss of lives in Gaza.”
Joining Ireland in the boycott this year were the Netherlands, Iceland, Slovenia, and Spain, all of whom skipped the Eurovision contest to demonstrate their opposition to Israel’s participation in the renowned music competition.
Recently, Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS declared its intention to also abstain from the competition next year, citing Eurovision as a “platform that fosters division.” AVROTROS justified its decision by stating that the Eurovision Song Contest can no longer be viewed as impartial, especially with a participating country embroiled in a significant military conflict.
The upcoming Eurovision event is scheduled to be held in May in Bulgaria’s Black Sea resort of Burgas.