Ireland and Netherlands Pull Out of Eurovision 2027 Amid Gaza Conflict Concerns
Broadcasters cite "appalling and ongoing loss of lives" and the contest's neutrality.
Ireland's national broadcaster, RTÉ, has announced it will boycott the Eurovision Song Contest for the second consecutive year, citing the ongoing conflict in Gaza. RTÉ stated that Ireland's participation "cannot be justified given the appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza."
Similarly, Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS has declared it will not participate in Eurovision 2027. The Dutch broadcaster indicated that the competition can no longer be considered neutral due to the involvement of a participating country in a large-scale military conflict.
The Israeli military launched its campaign in Gaza in response to Hamas-led attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages taken. According to Gaza's Hamas-run health ministry, the conflict has led to over 73,780 deaths in the territory. Israel asserts its military operations are defensive and conducted in accordance with international law, rejecting allegations of genocide.
Despite the withdrawals, the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest is scheduled to be held in Burgas, Bulgaria. The Grand Final will take place at the Arena Burgas on May 15, with semi-finals on May 11 and 13. Bulgaria earned hosting rights after DARA won the 2026 contest in Vienna with the song "Bangarang," marking the country's first victory in the competition.