The Eurovision Song Contest is known for bringing countries together through music. However, it is now dealing with a serious crisis. The event's organizer, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), has decided that Israel can take part in the 2026 contest. This choice has led at least four countries to announce they will withdraw in protest. The Netherlands, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia say they will not participate because of the war in Gaza and because they have lost trust in the EBU.
The problem began during a meeting of the EBU's members in Geneva. Some broadcasters wanted a private vote on whether to exclude Israel from future contests, due to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This request was rejected. Instead, the meeting agreed to new rules against organized voting, which some say helped Israel this year. In exchange, the members agreed not to vote on Israel's participation. This deal kept Israel in the contest while changing some voting rules.
The reaction was very fast and critical. Important broadcasters, like Spain's RTVE and Ireland's RTÉ, said they would boycott the 2026 event. They explained this was both a political decision and a sign of their growing distrust in the EBU. Spain's withdrawal is especially significant, as it is one of the "Big Five" major funders who automatically qualify for the final. Its absence is a big blow to the contest.
The different official statements show a deep divide. Israel's President called the EBU's decision a win for Eurovision's values of music and friendship between nations. On the other hand, Ireland's broadcaster said taking part was "unconscionable" because of the terrible loss of life and ongoing crisis in Gaza.
This conflict has wide effects. The EBU has kept its rule of not excluding members for political reasons, but it has damaged the contest's unity. Having several countries absent from this hugely popular event will change its character. It also sets a dangerous example where international conflicts directly influence who takes part. As plans for 2026 start, the EBU must manage not only the practical problems caused by the boycott but also a major crisis of trust that could change what Eurovision means in the future.