The Daily Star Ireland
Ireland’s national broadcaster RTÉ has announced it will withdraw from the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest if Israel is permitted to take part. The contest, which marks its 70th anniversary next May in Vienna, is already mired in geopolitical tensions, with growing calls across Europe to suspend Israel over its actions in Gaza.
RTÉ’s Position and Concerns
In a statement released on Thursday, RTÉ said its final decision would depend on the stance of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes the contest. However, the broadcaster made clear that participation alongside Israel would be “unconscionable.”
RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst cited the “appalling loss of lives in Gaza,” the targeted killings of journalists, and restrictions on international media access as core reasons for the move. He also referenced the plight of hostages still held in the region, saying Ireland could not in good conscience share a stage with Israel under such circumstances.
Political and Public Reaction
Ireland’s Minister for Public Expenditure Jack Chambers voiced his support for RTÉ, noting that many were horrified by the killings of journalists documenting the war. While he confirmed there had been no direct consultation between RTÉ and the government, Chambers said he “absolutely respected” the broadcaster’s position.
The National Union of Journalists (NUJ) Dublin Broadcasting Branch also welcomed the announcement. In a statement, it said RTÉ’s stance reflects the views of staff as well as the wider Irish public. The union had previously written to RTÉ in May, urging the broadcaster to oppose Israel’s participation in Eurovision, citing “the unprecedented targeting of journalists and media workers in Gaza.”
The NUJ further called on other European broadcasters to take similar action and pressed the EBU to suspend Israel “as a matter of urgency.”
The EBU’s Response and Next Steps
Eurovision director Martin Green acknowledged the concerns raised by RTÉ and other broadcasters, saying the EBU is consulting with all members to determine how to handle participation amid “geopolitical tensions.” Each broadcaster has until mid-December to confirm whether they will compete in next year’s event.
The EBU has extended the deadline to withdraw without penalty following its July General Assembly, when several member organizations—including Spain and Slovenia—joined Ireland in raising objections to Israel’s inclusion.
Broader Context
Controversy over Israel’s involvement in Eurovision has grown in recent years. Protests were staged outside competition venues in Basel, Switzerland earlier this year and in Malmö, Sweden in 2024. Demonstrators argued that allowing Israel to participate amounted to “sportswashing” and cultural normalization amid ongoing conflict.
The 2026 contest will be hosted by Austria, following singer JJ’s victory with Wasted Love in Basel. Ireland was represented there by Emmy with her song Laika Party.
Since its debut in 1965, Ireland has been one of Eurovision’s most successful countries, claiming seven victories, a record that still stands. However, its future in the competition now hangs on the EBU’s ruling on Israel’s eligibility.
