Netherlands to Return to Eurovision After Boycott Over Israel's Participation

The Netherlands will participate in the Eurovision Song Contest starting in 2027, public broadcaster NPO announced Wednesday. The country had boycotted the 2025 competition in protest of Israel's involvement. The decision follows changes to the contest's rules implemented by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and discussions between the Dutch broadcaster and the EBU.

Previously, Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS had withdrawn its responsibility for the country's Eurovision participation, stating that competing "under the current circumstances" conflicted with its values. NPO confirmed that the EBU has taken "significant steps" regarding the Eurovision rules, partly in response to criticism from public broadcasters. These changes aim to restore the contest's original principle of connecting European nations and peoples, especially during times of geopolitical unrest.

NPO stated that the EBU's rule changes were made "intentionally" concerning Israel's participation. For instance, a new rule ensures that a country experiencing a geopolitical crisis will not automatically host the contest if it wins. The EBU also previously introduced changes like adding jury votes to semi-finals and limiting audience votes, which some interpreted as responses to perceived political voting patterns favoring Israel in past contests.

Belgium also announced its return to the competition, clarifying that its participation does not signify approval of events in Gaza. They noted that the EBU is no longer avoiding difficult social and geopolitical issues, and that engagement is crucial. Despite these developments, Ireland has confirmed its continued boycott, and Spain is considering a similar move.

The Netherlands has a long history with Eurovision, winning five times, most recently in 2019. In 2025, their entry placed 12th, a year after their representative was disqualified from the final. In 2026, the Netherlands was among five countries that withdrew.