Eurovision Viewership Falls by 35 Million Amidst Israel Boycott

The Eurovision Song Contest final experienced a significant drop in viewership this year, with 35 million fewer viewers tuning in compared to last year, bringing the total to 131 million. This decline is largely attributed to a boycott by five participating countries: Holland, Iceland, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia. These nations chose not to send contestants to the event held in Vienna on May 16, as a protest against Israel's involvement.

Martin Green, director of Eurovision, acknowledged the impact of the absent member states on the viewership figures. However, he expressed a strong commitment to encouraging their return in 2027. "Our viewership figures are naturally lower without the five member states that chose not to participate, but we are determined to find ways that enable their return in 2027," Green stated.

Despite the overall decrease, the Eurovision Song Contest continues to hold considerable popularity in Scandinavian countries. In Finland, an impressive 93% of television viewers watched the final on the night it aired. Denmark also reported high engagement, with 79% of its television audience tuning in.

Founded by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), Eurovision was initially a purely European competition. It has since evolved into a more global phenomenon, with participants like Israel and Australia joining in recent years. This year also allowed fans from non-broadcasting countries to cast their votes, with individuals from 148 nations participating in the voting process.

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Our viewership figures are naturally lower without the five member states that chose not to participate, but we are determined to find ways that enable their return in 2027.