In early December 2025, the European Broadcasting Union (UER) made a decision that instantly became one of the most discussed topics in the music world. Israel was officially granted permission to participate in Eurovision 2026, which will take place in Wien, despite protests from several countries. This decision sparked a wave of discontent, leading Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, and Slovenia to announce their withdrawal from the contest.
Spanish broadcaster RTVE immediately announced that not only would it not send a representative, but it would also not broadcast either the semifinals or the final of the contest. RTVE management explained its stance by stating it was impossible to support an event in which a country accused of war crimes and contest violations is participating. RTVE president José Pablo López emphasized that, given the current circumstances, Israel’s participation was unacceptable for Spain.
Reaction from participants
The UER decision was made by vote: 738 in favor, 264 against, and 120 abstentions. The organization noted that the new rules are intended to ensure the contest’s neutrality and shield it from political pressure. Nevertheless, despite these measures, the scandal intensified.
Israeli officials greeted the news with enthusiasm. Foreign Minister Gideon Saar publicly expressed disappointment toward the countries choosing to boycott the contest, while President Isaac Herzog expressed hope that Eurovision would remain a platform for cultural dialogue and mutual understanding.
In Spain, many former Eurovision participants, including Blanca Paloma, Alfred García, and Blas Cantó, voiced their support for RTVE’s decision. They stated that they are proud of their country’s stance and consider it fair under the current circumstances.
The stance of other countries
Austrian broadcaster ORF and the authorities in Vienna, where the contest will be held, supported Israel’s participation, highlighting the importance of maintaining cultural dialogue. Meanwhile, Portugal has confirmed its participation in Eurovision 2026, and Finland also has no plans to withdraw from the contest. Belgium and Iceland have yet to make a final decision and are continuing national discussions.
Despite the boycott, Spain has no intention of canceling its national music festival Benidorm Fest, which traditionally selects the country’s Eurovision representative. RTVE has stated that the festival will go ahead as usual and continue to develop as an independent music event, regardless of participation in the international contest.
Looking ahead
The controversy over Israel’s admission to Eurovision 2026 has already become one of the most high-profile in recent years. For the first time in a long time, several countries have decided to withdraw in protest. This has sparked heated debate not only among fans but also at the level of governments and public organizations.
Eurovision organizers emphasize that the contest should remain apolitical, but the reality shows that it is impossible to completely avoid political conflicts. Ahead lies the 70th anniversary contest, set to take place amid uncertainty and controversy.
RUSSPAIN.COM reports that the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is an international organization uniting national public broadcasters from Europe and several other countries. The EBU has organized Eurovision since 1956. RTVE is Spain’s national public broadcaster, responsible for selecting and sending the country’s representative to the contest each year. Benidorm Fest is a Spanish national music festival that has served as the country’s Eurovision selection platform since 2022.
