Ireland has announced its decision to boycott the Eurovision Song Contest for the second consecutive year due to Israel’s involvement, as confirmed by the country’s national broadcaster. RTE stated that they will not be sending a representative to the 2027 event in Bulgaria and will not air the competition, citing concerns over the ongoing casualties in Gaza.
This move aligns Ireland with a group of countries, including the Netherlands, Iceland, Slovenia, and Spain, that opted out of Eurovision this year in objection to Israel’s participation in the musical extravaganza. Following suit, Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS disclosed its intention to also refrain from participation in the upcoming edition, labeling Eurovision as a platform that fosters discord.
AVROTROS justified its decision by asserting that the Eurovision Song Contest can no longer be deemed impartial, given the involvement of a nation embroiled in a significant military conflict. The 2027 competition is scheduled to be held in May in Burgas, a Black Sea resort in Bulgaria.
