The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has confirmed that Israel will participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, following a decision to shelve a proposed ballot on the matter. The ruling came during a key meeting in Geneva on Thursday, December 4, 2025, where broadcasters instead focused on implementing new reforms aimed at bolstering the contest's neutrality.
Reforms Replace Controversial Vote
During the session at the EBU's Geneva headquarters, member organizations agreed there was no need for a formal vote on Israel's participation. This decision was made in light of a suite of new rules designed to enhance "transparency and neutrality" and to curb excessive influence from governments and third parties. The reforms were adopted in a secret ballot held on Thursday evening.
EBU President Delphine Ernotte Cunci expressed gratitude for the members' constructive dialogue. "These discussions have led to meaningful changes to the rules of the Eurovision Song Contest, ensuring it remains a place for unity and cultural exchange," Cunci stated following the meeting.
The significant rule changes include:
- Strict new regulations to limit government-backed promotion campaigns.
- Halving the maximum number of public votes allowed per payment method.
- Reinstating professional juries for the semi-final rounds.
- Expanding the size and eligibility criteria for national juries.
- Implementing enhanced technical safeguards to detect fraudulent voting.
Broadcasters Respond with Boycotts
The EBU's decision has prompted immediate backlash from several national broadcasters. Spain, Ireland, and the Netherlands have all announced they will withdraw from the 2026 contest, set to be held in Vienna from May 12 to 16, 2026, citing Israel's inclusion.
Dutch broadcaster Avrotros declared that "participation under the current circumstances is incompatible with the public values that are essential to us." Spanish broadcaster RTVE stated its board had agreed last September to withdraw if Israel participated, a decision that also means it will not air the contest's semi-finals or final. RTVE further claimed the EBU denied its request to hold the participation vote, increasing its "distrust of the festival’s organization."
Political Reactions and Next Steps
Israel's Foreign Minister issued a strong statement in response to the boycotts, writing, "I am ashamed of those countries that chose to boycott a music competition like Eurovision because of Israel’s participation." The controversy unfolds as the iconic song contest prepares for its 70th-anniversary edition in 2026.
With the participation question settled, broadcasters must now formally confirm their involvement. The EBU is expected to announce the official list of participating countries for Eurovision 2026 before December 25, 2025.
