In brief
NPO’s decision to skip the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest in Burgas follows a 2026 boycott over Israel’s participation and reflects growing sensitivities within Dutch society. Avrotros had already pulled out of last year’s event, and other European broadcasters joined in protest. Eurovision organisers plan changes, including banning host countries involved in armed conflict, to cushion future divisions. While the Dutch broadcaster will still air the show, organisers hope a Dutch entry can return when the climate normalises.
Netherlands withdraws from 2027 Eurovision amid Israel controversy
The Dutch public broadcaster NPO has reversed a prior pledge and announced it will not send a contestant to the 2027 contest in Burgas, following a wave of boycotts over Israel’s entry.
The decision comes after Avrotros, a Dutch network, pulled out of last year’s event and after national debates intensified around the war in Gaza. “Sensitivity in society is high, the contest could deepen divisions,” NPO’s media director said.
Background of the boycott
Four countries—Netherlands, Iceland, Spain and Ireland—also sat out the 2026 contest. Eurovision organisers are now looking to recalibrate the programme, including clauses that would bar nations involved in armed conflict from hosting.
Future prospects
While the Dutch national broadcaster will continue to air the show, its director Martin Green said the contest remains a platform for unity and that the Netherlands could return when “time is right”.
The next edition will take place on 15 May 2027 in Burgas, Bulgaria, after the current champion Dara won the 2026 contest from Vienna.
The controversy has also prompted broadcasters in Spain, Ireland and Czech Republic to question their participation, and critics argue that the competition’s spirit of cross‑border unity is at risk.
