Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain told the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) last week that they would not take part in the competition, after organizers had decided to allow Israel to participate.
The Icelandic broadcaster’s board met on Wednesday to make its decision.
After its conclusion, the broadcaster stated in a statement that
“taking into account the public debate in this country, it is clear that there will be neither joy nor peace in relation to RUV’s participation in Eurovision”.
“Therefore, RUV has decided today to inform the EBU that RUV will not participate in Eurovision next year,” the statement said.
Last week, the EBU met for a general assembly meeting to discuss concerns about Israel’s participation.
In response to accusations that Israel had rigged the vote in favor of its members, EBU members voted to tighten voting rules for the contest, but took no steps to exclude any broadcaster from the contest.
Wednesday was the last day for national broadcasters to announce whether they intended to participate in the competition.
The final list of competing countries will be published before Christmas, the EBU confirmed.
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