36 Nations to Compete in Eurovision 2027; Several Boycott Over Israel's Participation

The European Broadcasting Union announced on Wednesday that 36 countries will participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2027, scheduled to be held in Burgas, Bulgaria, in May. This marks an increase of one nation from the previous year, with Canada joining as a competitor for the first time and North Macedonia returning to the contest. The Czech Republic, however, withdrew due to budget cuts at its public broadcaster.

Five nations that boycotted last year have not yet declared their intention to return. Ireland, Iceland, and the Netherlands have confirmed they will not participate. The Dutch broadcaster NPO initially announced its participation but reversed its decision two days prior, citing opposition from local staff and television stations against competing alongside Israel. Despite the broadcaster's withdrawal, the contest will still be broadcast in the Netherlands.

Broadcasters in Ireland and Iceland had announced their boycott about a month ago, also in protest of participating with Israel. Meanwhile, Spain and Slovenia, who also boycotted last year, have been granted an extension until December to decide on their participation.

Hungary's participation remains undecided following a change in government, as the previous administration had opposed the contest's nature. The participating countries include Albania, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, Croatia, Cyprus, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Israel, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.

The Eurovision 2027 contest will take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, on May 11, 13, and 15.