Full Breakdown
Eurovision 2026 Opens Amid Boycott Over Israel’s Participation
5/12/2026, 11:33:25 PM
Core Event
70th Eurovision Song Contest opened in Vienna on 12 May, but five broadcasters withdrew over Israel’s participation, leaving 35 entries—the smallest field since 2003.
Background & Context
The Gaza war followed Hamas’ 7 October attack that killed about 1,200 civilians; Israel’s response has killed over 72,000 Palestinians. Eurovision has previously faced political disputes, including Russia’s 2022 exclusion.
Key Figures & Groups
Boycotting broadcasters are Spain’s RTVE, the Netherlands’ AVROTROS, Ireland’s RTÉ, Iceland’s RÚV and Slovenia’s RTV. Host officials include contest director Martin Green and Vienna Mayor Michael Ludwig. Amnesty International Austria and its secretary-general Agnes Callamard have criticised the event. Former winners Emmelie de Forest and Charlie McGettigan support the boycott.
Data & Statistics
35 entries compete. Protest size is estimated at 500-3,000. Gaza casualties exceed 72,000 Palestinians; 1,200 civilians died on Oct 7. The 2025 contest drew about 166 million viewers, with a possible decline.
Official Statements & Responses
Martin Green told Reuters the EBU “misses” the absent members and remains in dialogue. The EBU issued a statement respecting each broadcaster’s decision and pledging a successful contest. RTVE, AVROTROS and RTÉ said Israel’s participation serves political goals, is incompatible with public values, and is unconscionable given the humanitarian crisis. Amnesty International Austria urged Mayor Ludwig to apologise for his remarks about protesters.
Criticism & Opposition
Amnesty International’s Agnes Callamard called the EBU’s refusal to suspend Israel “an act of cowardice” and a “double standard” versus Russia. Emmelie de Forest said the contest cannot be separated from the “devastating humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza.” 1,000 artists signed a “No Music For Genocide” petition; Charlie McGettigan will return his 1994 trophy. Critics argue Israel’s presence normalises the conflict and distracts from civilian suffering.
On-the-Ground Reports
Vienna police prepared for blockades, banned drones within 1.5 km of the venue and expect up to 3,000 demonstrators. A Tuesday protest for about 500 participants is planned. The FBI set up a task force to monitor cyber threats. Mayor Ludwig warned that “large security measures” are needed because of “people like you.”
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Protest numbers differ: Reuters cites 500, police later mention up to 3,000. Gaza death tolls are reported as “more than 72,000” and “at least 72,740.” No comment from the UK, France or Germany.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We won't let ourselves be terrorised into silence,” — Michael Ludwig, Mayor of Vienna
- “They are members of our family, right? We miss them,” — Martin Green, Eurovision Contest Director
- “Getty Ahead of the competition on Saturday, Amnesty International’s Secretary-General Agnes Callamard said: "The failure of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to suspend Israel from Eurovision, as it did with Russia, is an act of cowardice and an illustration of blatant double standards when it comes to Israel.” — Agnes Callamard, Amnesty International Secretary-General
- “For me, this is first and foremost about the devastating humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza and the enormous loss of civilian lives,” — Emmelie de Forest, 2013 Eurovision winner
What’s Next
The grand final takes place on 16 May; the EBU says it will continue dialogue with the boycotting broadcasters and hopes they can return for next year’s contest.
