Eurovision must make a critical decision regarding Israel

The future of the Eurovision Song Contest hangs in the balance as a pivotal meeting takes place in Geneva on Thursday. Delegates from participating countries and organisers will decide whether Israel should remain in the competition amid protests over its governments actions in Gaza and allegations of biased voting.

Several countries, including Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands, and Slovenia, have indicated they would boycott the event if Israel participates. Conversely, Germany has warned it might withdraw if Israel is excluded.

The controversy follows repeated disruptions at recent contests. During the 2025 final in Basel, Switzerland, two protesters tried to storm the stage and throw paint on Israels contestant, Yuval Raphael. The attack was thwarted, and Raphael ultimately secured second place after a strong public vote, though the outcome sparked claims that Israel had influenced the vote through a widespread paid promotional campaign.

Israel has rejected wrongdoing but maintains it faces an international smear campaign. In response, Eurovision organisers recently introduced stricter voting regulations to curb government influence. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) announced limits on fan voting, measures to detect coordinated voting, and restrictions on disproportionate promotion campaigns without directly naming Israel.

EBU hopes these measures will reassure members about the contests impartiality. The rules will be reviewed at the organisations biannual general meeting, attended by figures such as BBC Director-General Tim Davie. If concerns persist, a vote on Israels participation may occur.

Natalija Gorak of Slovenian broadcaster RTV predicted the vote could favor Israel, which would prompt Slovenia to abstain from participating or broadcasting. Eurovision analyst Paul Jordan described the situation as a crisis point, noting that what is meant to be an apolitical contest has become politically charged.

Next years contest will take place in Vienna, Austria, following JJs win this year. Originally, a vote on Israels inclusion was planned for November but was postponed after a Gaza ceasefire. Austrias broadcaster ORF confirmed Israel is a core part of Eurovision after discussions with Israeli officials.

Spain, one of the contests major contributors, has threatened to withdraw if Israel participates, citing political exploitation of Eurovision. Israel has consistently denied accusations regarding actions in Gaza, where reports indicate over 70,000 deaths.

If Israel were excluded, Germany might also pull out, while Israeli broadcaster KAN maintains that it has complied with all EBU rules and is continuing preparations for the 2026 contest despite ongoing debates.

Author: Sophia Brooks