European Broadcasters to Consider israel’s Eurovision 2026 Participation
Vienna – European broadcasting organizations will weigh a potential vote to exclude Israel from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest, hosted in Vienna, Austria, according to statements released by ORF, the Austrian broadcaster. The move comes amid ongoing pro-Palestine protests that have shadowed the contest in recent years, including demonstrations at the 2024 event in malmö, Sweden, and this year’s competition in Basel, Switzerland.
The debate over Israel’s participation centers on concerns over the country’s involvement in the ongoing conflict in Gaza. While a formal vote has not yet been scheduled, the possibility reflects growing pressure from artists, activists, and some broadcasters to take a stance on the issue. ORF has affirmed the contest will proceed regardless of the number of participating broadcasters.
The 70th anniversary of the Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Vienna in May 2026. an ORF spokesperson stated, “The Eurovision song contest will take place in Vienna in 2026.The event will take place irrespective of the number of participating broadcasters.” This declaration signals ORF’s commitment to hosting the event despite potential boycotts or withdrawals of contributions from other broadcasters.
