Netherlands Withdraws from Eurovision 2027 Over Israel's Participation

In depth

The Dutch public broadcaster NPO announced it will not take part in Eurovision 2027 in Burgas, Bulgaria, for a second year in a row. According to Ynet, the decision stems from disagreements among broadcasting bodies in the country. According to Walla, the broadcaster noted that "we knew Israel's participation would create division." According to Arutz Sheva, the decision was made in protest against Israel's participation.

According to Haaretz and Israel Hayom, a month ago the Netherlands announced it would return to the contest. According to Arutz Sheva, the broadcaster reversed its decision to send a representative to the contest following public opposition and pressure from broadcaster employees and pro-Palestinian organizations. According to Maariv, a letter sent by some 400 public broadcasting employees and threats of protest action led to the turnaround.

According to Kan News, the broadcasting body AVROTROS gave up its right to represent the Netherlands, and the opportunity then passed to NPO, which also declined it. According to Channel 13 News, the contest will be broadcast in the country as planned.