Iceland Eurovision boycott has made headlines as the country confirmed it will not take part in next year’s contest. The decision follows a European Broadcasting Union (EBU) general assembly, which cleared Israel to compete in Eurovision 2026 despite growing controversy.
The Icelandic broadcaster RÚV explained that the participation of Israel’s national broadcaster, KAN, has caused division among both the EBU members and the public. RÚV stated that joining the contest under these circumstances would bring neither joy nor peace to Icelanders.
This makes Iceland the fifth country to withdraw in protest. Previously, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Spain announced their boycotts, citing Israel’s ongoing actions in Gaza. Many raised concerns about fairness in voting and campaign practices, prompting changes to contest rules.
The EBU modified its voting regulations, reducing fan influence while reintroducing juries to the semi-finals. The jury size has also increased from five to seven members. The EBU emphasized that the contest should continue as planned with these safeguards in place.
RÚV convened a board meeting on December 10 to decide Iceland’s official stance. The broadcaster highlighted that artist associations and public opinion overwhelmingly opposed participation. RÚV had also requested Israel’s exclusion, citing prior precedents, but the EBU did not approve.
Over seventy former Eurovision contestants publicly supported Israel’s removal from the 2025 contest. This sentiment has carried into 2026, with calls from past winners to exclude the country. The pressure follows findings from a United Nations inquiry regarding alleged atrocities in Gaza, which Israel denies.
Israel’s president, Isaac Herzog, responded by defending his country’s right to compete internationally. He described Eurovision as a platform for culture, music, friendship, and cross-border understanding. Israel achieved second place last year, represented by Yuval Raphael, who survived the 2023 Nova music festival attack.
Next year’s Eurovision, the 70th edition, will take place in Vienna on May 16, 2026. Organizers are preparing for both excitement and tension as multiple countries challenge Israel’s participation. Meanwhile, Iceland Eurovision boycott remains a notable political and cultural statement, highlighting the intersection of music and international affairs.
The debate continues over whether the contest can balance inclusivity, politics, and fairness, as fans and artists weigh in across Europe.
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