Israel approved to take part in ESC despite potential boycott from some countries.

After months of debate, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has approved modifications to its voting system, enabling Israel to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest this May. The adjustment ensures that any country wishing to take part in the contest can do so.

Following the announcement, broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands declared on Thursday evening that they would abstain from participating in the event. Spanish network RTVE is among the five primary financial supporters of Eurovision. Meanwhile, the Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS described the decision as "the outcome of a careful evaluation."

The EBU, together with Austrias ORF, the host broadcaster, engaged in extensive talks in recent weeks to avert a potential boycott. Officials emphasized that Eurovision, as the largest music competition globally, is organized by public broadcasters and should remain apolitical.

In addition, the EBU implemented changes to the contests voting rules. Audience influence has been reduced, while the impact of the jury in the semi-finals and final has been strengthened. This move followed the 2025 contest in Basel, where Israeli performer Yuval Raphael secured second place largely due to overwhelming audience votes. Concerns had been raised that these results were influenced by a strategic campaign supporting Israel.

Author: Logan Reeves