Ireland, Slovenia, Spain, and the Netherlands announced they would not participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest following the European Broadcasting Union’s confirmation that Israel would take part. The decision was prompted by concerns over Israel’s participation, with Ireland’s broadcaster RTÉ citing the loss of lives in Gaza as a reason for withdrawal.
Spain’s broadcaster RTVE cited the denial of a secret ballot on Israel’s participation as increasing distrust in the contest’s organisation. The Netherlands’ broadcaster Avrotros stated that participation could not be reconciled with its core public values.
Slovenia’s national broadcaster, represented by president Natalija Gorščak, confirmed it would not take part in the 2026 event. The EBU had previously announced a large majority of members agreed there was no need for a further vote on participation.