Dutch Public Broadcasters Demand Eurovision Exit Over Israel's Participation

Approximately 400 employees of the Dutch public broadcaster NPO have formally requested that the Netherlands withdraw from the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, citing Israel's participation as the reason. In a letter sent to NPO management, the employees criticized Israel's actions in Gaza and what they described as a violation of press freedom. The letter, shared online under the hashtag "Not My Eurovision," stated, "We cannot accept a situation where the desire to participate in an entertainment program outweighs the lives of countless people being killed."

The protest follows the Netherlands' announcement in September that it would return to Eurovision in 2027, after boycotting the 2026 competition due to Israel's involvement. This decision was made despite opposition from AVROTROS, the broadcaster previously responsible for the Dutch delegation. NPO management subsequently took over responsibility for the country's participation and established an independent team.

The employees also criticized the decision-making process, claiming that management from various broadcasting entities were not consulted. Seven broadcasting organizations had previously sought clarification on the matter. The current demand is for withdrawal in 2027 and a thorough discussion regarding future participation.

Meanwhile, Ireland has officially announced its withdrawal from Eurovision 2027 and will not broadcast the event in protest of Israel's participation. In Iceland, a majority of the public broadcasting council opposes participation as long as Israel competes, though a final decision has not been made. The Czech Republic has also stated it will not participate in the upcoming contest, but this decision is due to budget cuts and is unrelated to Israel. Spain and Slovenia, which boycotted Eurovision 2026, have not yet officially announced their withdrawal from the next competition.