Which Countries Are Boycotting Eurovision 2026 Over Israel’s Participation?

Eurovision has always been more than just a singing contest. Then contest is a celebration of diversity, and for many of us who tune in year after year, a guilty pleasure that brings Europe (and beyond) together for one night of drama, music, and glitter. But this time, politics has taken center stage.

In a move that has sent shockwaves across the Eurovision community, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia have all confirmed that they will boycott Eurovision 2026 if Israel participates. And they’re not alone. Other countries like Iceland and Spain are publicly questioning their own involvement, with officials calling for Israel to be excluded.

So what exactly is going on, and what does it mean for fans of the world’s most-watched non-sporting event?

Why Countries Are Threatening a Boycott

Eurovision has never been immune to politics. From subtle lyrics hinting at protests to on-stage stunts that steal headlines, the contest often reflects the political climate in Europe. But full-scale boycotts are rare.

The current uproar centers around Israel’s participation. Critics argue that allowing Israel to compete while conflicts and humanitarian concerns dominate headlines sends the wrong message. Broadcasters in countries like Ireland and the Netherlands have taken a firm stand, saying that participation would contradict the values of peace and unity that Eurovision claims to promote.

For Ireland’s RTÉ, the decision is also about aligning with the mood of its people. Public campaigns have been mounting for months, urging broadcasters to take action. The Netherlands’ AVROTROS echoed similar concerns, stating clearly that they cannot stand on the same stage under these circumstances.

Countries That Have Already Declared a Boycott

• Ireland: RTÉ has publicly announced it will not compete in Eurovision 2026 if Israel is included.
• Netherlands: Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS has confirmed it will withdraw under the same condition.
• Slovenia: The Slovenian broadcaster RTVSLO has joined the boycott, adding momentum to the movement.

These are not fringe countries in the contest either. Ireland has a long Eurovision history, holding the record for most wins, and the Netherlands is a past winner with strong recent performances. Their absence will be noticed.

Who Else Might Join the Boycott?

The list doesn’t stop there.

• Iceland: The national broadcaster RÚV has said it is considering pulling out, depending on the EBU’s decision regarding Israel. Iceland has a history of political statements at Eurovision, so this wouldn’t be out of character.
• Spain: The country’s culture minister has openly supported the idea of excluding Israel, hinting that Spain could withdraw if no action is taken.

The pressure on the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes Eurovision, is building fast.

What This Means for Eurovision Fans

For fans who love the glitter, the bizarre stage setups, and the sense of European unity, this would surely be a bittersweet moment. On one hand, Eurovision is at its best when it’s about music and cultural exchange. On the other, you can’t ignore the reality that the stage is also a political platform.

If the boycott continues to grow, we could see one of the most divided Eurovision contests in history. Imagine a final without Ireland or the Netherlands. These are countries that have shaped Eurovision’s identity for decades. It would honestly feel incomplete.

At the same time, this isn’t the first time politics have overshadowed the show. Eurovision has survived Cold War tensions, controversial voting blocs, and even bans. The difference now is how interconnected we all are; social media makes every decision louder and harder to ignore.

Eurovision and Tourism

Eurovision is a very a huge driver of tourism. Every year, thousands of fans pack their bags and head to the host city, filling hotels, restaurants, and local attractions. Cities like Stockholm, Lisbon, and Turin have all seen the “Eurovision effect”, where visitors pour in, not just for the show itself, but to experience the culture, nightlife, and landmarks of the host country.

That’s why this boycott is bigger than just music. If major countries like Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia refuse to participate, it changes the entire atmosphere of the event. Fans from those nations may decide not to travel either, which could hit local economies hard. Imagine fewer Dutch fans filling the bars of a Eurovision host city or fewer Irish travelers adding their unique energy to the celebrations. This would significantly harm the international buzz that makes Eurovision such a special gathering.

Most travelers must have seen firsthand how events like this transform a city overnight. Airports get busier, public spaces turn into party zones, and even small businesses feel the impact of the influx of foreign visitors. If the boycott grows, the contest risks losing not just singers and broadcasters but also the incredible cultural exchange that comes with travel.

That’s the saddest part about all this. Eurovision is one of the rare events where people from dozens of countries come together in one place, wave their flags proudly, and celebrate differences.