Dutch Broadcaster AVROTROS to Boycott Eurovision 2027, Citing Israel Conflict
On Monday, Dutch public broadcaster AVROTROS declared its decision to abstain from the Eurovision Song Contest for a second consecutive year, labeling it a 'platform for division' amid ongoing tensions regarding Israel's participation. This announcement comes after broadcasters from Iceland, Ireland, Slovenia, Spain, and the Netherlands opted out of the 2026 contest. Additionally, AVROTROS plans to forgo the 2027 event due to Israel's role in a military conflict. Taco Zimmerman, the director-general, emphasized that the contest's initial aim of fostering unity is compromised by global disputes. While Eurovision Director Martin Green expressed disappointment, he acknowledged the perspectives of member broadcasters. AVROTROS called on the EBU to establish clear guidelines for nations engaged in military conflicts, highlighting humanitarian issues in Gaza and limitations on press freedom.
Key facts
- AVROTROS will boycott Eurovision 2027 for the second year.
- The boycott is due to Israel's participation in the contest.
- Broadcasters from Netherlands, Iceland, Ireland, Slovenia, and Spain refused to participate in 2026.
- AVROTROS calls Eurovision a 'platform for division'.
- The decision was announced on Monday in The Hague.
- The contest is run by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU).
- Bulgarian singer Dara won the 2026 contest with 'Bangaranga'.
- Israel has participated in Eurovision since 1973.
Entities
Artists
- Dara
Institutions
- AVROTROS
- NPO
- European Broadcasting Union (EBU)
- Associated Press
Locations
- Netherlands
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Gaza
- Geneva
- Switzerland
- Vienna
- Austria
- Burgas
- Bulgaria
- The Hague