Netherlands withdraws from Eurovision 2027 over Israel participation

The Netherlands will not compete in Eurovision 2027, reversing a decision to return, after public broadcaster NPO said it could not find a suitable way to take part amid divisions over Israel’s participation.

NPO media director Jurre Bosman said Israel’s involvement had prompted strong reactions and debate in Dutch society. NPO chair Jet de Ranitz said the broadcaster had initially believed there was enough support to return, but had concluded it was too early to participate.

The contest will still be broadcast in the Netherlands. Eurovision director Martin Green said organisers respected the Dutch decision and hoped to welcome a Dutch entry again when the time was right.

The Netherlands and four other countries boycotted the 2026 contest. Dutch broadcaster Avrotros had pulled out, but NPO subsequently pledged that the country would return in 2027. Ireland has also said it will not take part next year, while Spain’s public broadcaster has backed a boycott, according to the BBC.

Eurovision organisers have announced changes to the contest, including new rules on hosting and voting, amid divisions over Israel’s participation. The 2027 competition is scheduled to take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, on 15 May.