Dutch Broadcaster Signals Possible Eurovision Withdrawal Over Middle East Tensions

The Dutch public broadcaster AVROTROS announced on May 18, 2026, that it will not participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2027, citing concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza and geopolitical tensions in the Middle East. AVROTROS stated that these issues have compromised the contest's neutrality and that recent changes by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) are insufficient. However, unlike last year, the final decision on the Netherlands' participation will be made by the national public broadcasting organization NPO, which now holds responsibility for the country's Eurovision involvement.

Last year, AVROTROS declared it would boycott Eurovision 2026 if Israel participated, due to the ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis in Gaza. After the EBU allowed Israel to compete, AVROTROS followed through on its threat and the Netherlands did not send a contestant. This year, AVROTROS reiterated its stance that it does not intend to return to Eurovision, regardless of Israel's involvement.

AVROTROS's previous statement highlighted concerns about Israel's impact on the contest, including alleged government interference and the use of Eurovision as a political tool, which contradicts the event's apolitical nature. The broadcaster also expressed deep worry over press freedom violations and the targeting of journalists in the region. The Netherlands joins Ireland, Iceland, and Slovenia in threatening or confirming non-participation in Eurovision 2026 if Israel competes.

Meanwhile, Israel continues to prepare for Eurovision 2026, with Israeli representative Noam Batan meeting President Isaac Herzog at the President's Residence on May 18, 2026. The ongoing controversy underscores the complex intersection of cultural events and geopolitical conflicts in the region.