Dutch broadcaster boycotts Eurovision 2027 over Israel's participation

The Netherlands will not participate in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, as Dutch public broadcaster AvroTros announced a boycott in protest of Israel's inclusion in the competition. This decision comes amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with AvroTros stating that recent rule changes by Eurovision organizers fail to guarantee the event's neutrality.

AvroTros, part of the NPO, the umbrella organization for Dutch public broadcasters, expressed that while new rules prevent countries involved in armed conflict from hosting, they do not sufficiently ensure the event's impartiality. "The international conflicts are undeniably affecting the Contest more and more, damaging its neutral character. The Eurovision Song Contest has therefore become a divisive platform," said AvroTros Director-General Taco Zimmerman.

“

The international conflicts are undeniably affecting the Contest more and more, damaging its neutral character. The Eurovision Song Contest has therefore become a divisive platform.

Zimmerman acknowledged the difficulty of the decision, emphasizing AvroTros' commitment to its core values. "It is painful because we actually really wanted to be part of the contest again next year. But we remain committed to our values in everything we do, even when it means stepping away from an event that is very close to our hearts," he stated.

“

It is painful because we actually really wanted to be part of the contest again next year. But we remain committed to our values in everything we do, even when it means stepping away from an event that is very close to our hearts.

Eurovision introduced new rules in early August 2026, prohibiting countries engaged in armed conflict from hosting, even if they win. However, these rules still permit Israel to compete as a participant. Eurovision Contest Executive Martin Green stated that the organizers regret AvroTros' decision but understand and respect it. He added that the organizers would explore the possibility of another Dutch broadcaster participating next year.

This withdrawal marks the second consecutive year the Netherlands has opted out of Eurovision, following a similar decision in 2026, also linked to Israel's participation. The situation highlights the growing tension between the Eurovision Song Contest's aim of unity and the geopolitical realities impacting international events.

“

We very much hope that the audience and artists in the Netherlands can continue to be represented in the Eurovision Song Contest.