Ireland Cites Gaza Crisis in Boycotting Eurovision 2027
Translated & summarized from Channel 9 by baba
Irish broadcaster RTÉ will not participate in or air the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This follows the Netherlands' withdrawal and a prior decision allowing Israel's participation.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Ireland boycotts Eurovision 2027 due to Gaza crisis.
- RTÉ cites civilian deaths and humanitarian concerns.
- Eurovision organizers respect Ireland's decision.
- Netherlands also withdrew from the 2027 contest.
- Israel's participation was previously confirmed.
- 2027 contest will be held in Bulgaria.
Irish broadcaster RTÉ has announced it will not participate in or broadcast the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, citing the ongoing loss of life and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. RTÉ stated that the situation continues to threaten the lives of many civilians and expressed deep concern over the denial of access for international journalists to the Gaza Strip.
Martin Österdahl, the Eurovision Song Contest's executive supervisor, acknowledged RTÉ's decision with regret but stated that organizers respect it and recognize Ireland's significant contributions to the contest. He added that Ireland remains a valued part of the Eurovision family and will be welcomed back in the future.
This decision follows a vote in December 2025 by European broadcasters to allow Israel to participate in the contest. Österdahl confirmed that the European Broadcasting Union members had made a final decision and no further votes would be held on the matter. At that time, RTÉ had already declared its position unchanged, stating it would not participate in or broadcast the 2026 contest.
Ireland is the second country to withdraw from Eurovision 2027; the Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS previously announced its non-participation. At the previous contest, Israel secured second place, with Bulgaria taking the win. The 2027 contest is scheduled to be held in Burgas, Bulgaria, with the final on May 15th at the Burgas Arena.
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