Geneva, Switzerland – November 27, 2023 – A decision on weather Israel will be permitted to participate in the 2026 Eurovision song Contest has been postponed, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) announced Monday. The EBU’s executive board agreed to address the issue at its ordinary winter general assembly in December, rather than holding a special session as previously considered.
The postponement follows a ceasefire that began Friday and the release of all 20 living Israeli hostages held by Hamas, in exchange for the return of hundreds of palestinian prisoners held in israeli jails. The EBU had previously announced it would invite its 68 member countries to share thier views on Israel’s participation at a general assembly meeting initially scheduled for November.
The decision to delay the vote comes amid growing calls for a boycott of the contest if Israel is allowed to compete. Spain, ireland, Slovenia, Iceland, and the Netherlands have indicated they would consider withdrawing from the 2026 competition, which will be hosted in Vienna by Austrian broadcaster ORF. ORF has publicly stated its opposition to boycotts, arguing that “Eurovision and the arts in general are not the appropriate arenas for sanctions.”
Dutch broadcaster AvroTros has maintained its position against Israel’s participation,stating that even a ceasefire in Gaza would not alter its stance for the 2026 contest,though future participation will be reassessed based on evolving circumstances.
Israel’s national broadcaster, Kan, has argued for its continued inclusion in the contest, calling it a “longstanding, popular and accomplished participant.” Israel finished second in the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest in May, with Yuval raphael receiving the highest combined public vote, though Austria was ultimately declared the winner due to jury votes.
