Ireland Cites Gaza Crisis in Boycotting Eurovision 2027
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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