The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has announced a delay in its decision regarding Israel’s participation in the next Eurovision Song Contest. The vote, originally scheduled for November, has been postponed to an in-person meeting in December.
This move comes in response to “recent developments in the Middle East,” according to the EBU. The organization stated that an open and in-person discussion among its members is necessary to address the issue of participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.
Israel’s potential involvement in the contest has become a point of contention, with several participating countries, including Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, Iceland, and the Netherlands, indicating they might boycott the event if Israel is allowed to compete. Some broadcasters have stated that their position would remain unchanged even if a ceasefire in Gaza were to be reached.
The EBU had previously invited 68 member countries to share their views on Israel’s participation. The Austrian broadcaster ORF, set to host the 2026 contest, welcomed the EBU’s decision, having previously urged against boycotts, stating that arts and cultural events like Eurovision are not suitable platforms for sanctions.
Israel achieved second place in the most recent Eurovision Song Contest, securing a large public vote, although Austria ultimately won the competition due to jury votes.