In brief
The Netherlands has withdrawn from the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest after backlash over Israel’s participation, reversing a prior pledge to return next year. The decision follows the departure of Dutch broadcaster Avrotros, which joined a group of nations that boycotted this year’s event over the same issue. NPO’s media director cited societal division and sensitivities, while the organisation’s chair said no suitable format had been found to address the conflict. Eurovision organisers expressed regret but emphasised the event’s role as a unifying cultural platform. The 2027 contest will still be held in Burgas, Bulgaria on May 15, with other countries continuing to participate amid ongoing controversy.
Netherlands has withdrawn from the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest after backlash over Israel’s participation, reversing a prior pledge that the country would return next year.
Earlier this year, the Dutch broadcaster Avrotros pulled out of the event and joined a coalition of five nations that boycotted the 2026 contest over the same issue. NPO, the national public broadcaster, stepped in to lead the return but ultimately decided to forgo participation due to societal divisions caused by the clash.
NPO’s media director explained that Israel’s entry generated significant controversy in Dutch society. The organisation’s chair, Jet de Ranitz, noted that a suitable format to address the tensions could not be found, leading the decision to take a step back.
Eurovision’s director, Martin Green, expressed deep regret over the Netherlands’ absence but highlighted the contest’s historical role in uniting people across Europe and beyond through music and creativity.
While the Dutch entry will not compete, the Eurovision Song Contest will still be broadcast in the Netherlands. Organisers remain hopeful that a Dutch act can return when the climate of discussion becomes more conducive to shared celebration.
In related developments, five other countries—Bulgaria, Ireland, Iceland, Spain and Slovenia—continued to abstain from the 2026 event, citing concerns over Israel’s military actions in Gaza. Eurovision confirmed that the 2027 contest will be staged in Burgas, Bulgaria on 15 May, following this year’s winner in Vienna.
