Netherlands Pulls Out of Eurovision 2027 Over Israel Controversy
We have known for some time that Israel’s participation elicits various reactions in society and causes discussion and division… therefore, after consultation with the Board of Broadcasters, the NPO has decided to forgo participation in 2027,
media director Jurre Bosman announced in a statement. The Netherlands will not participate in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, Dutch public broadcaster NPO announced, reversing a previous decision to return to the competition and joining a growing wave of boycotts over Israel’s ongoing military offensive in Gaza.
Originally, AVROTROS—the network responsible for selecting Dutch entries and broadcasting the show—withdrew from the contest, stating the event could no longer be considered neutral due to the war in Gaza. While NPO initially stepped in and pledged to bring the country back for the 2027 contest, internal divisions proved insurmountable. NPO executive chairman Jet de Ranitz acknowledged that the network attempted to organize participation through an independent team of external experts, but failed to secure sufficient staffing support from other public broadcasters.
Broadcasting Retraction and Societal Divisions
While the broadcaster initially believed it could facilitate a neutral return, media director Jurre Bosman noted that Israel’s continued presence in the contest drives persistent debate across Dutch society. Despite dropping out of the competition itself, public broadcaster NOS will still air the Eurovision Song Contest in the Netherlands next year, complete with Dutch commentary and preview programming.
The withdrawal places the Netherlands alongside Ireland, which confirmed through RTÉ on September 17 that it will also skip the 2027 event. RTÉ stated that Ireland’s participation cannot be justified given the ongoing loss of life in Gaza and the continuous denial of independent access to international journalists within the territory. Meanwhile, Spain’s public broadcaster head has expressed personal favor for a boycott, and the Czech public broadcaster has also withdrawn, though citing separate financial spending cuts.
EBU Response and Future Contest Logistics
European Broadcasting Union (EBU) Eurovision director Martin Green expressed deep regret over the Dutch withdrawal. We’re deeply sorry that NPO will now not take part in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest,
Green stated, emphasizing that the EBU understands and respects the strength of feeling behind the decision. Despite the mounting pressure and consecutive boycotts, the EBU maintains that the contest remains a unifying force in a polarized world.
BREAKING:The Netherlands officially withdraws from Eurovision 2027 over Israel’s participation. pic.twitter.com/boBD7ZMbti
The 2027 competition is scheduled to take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, following Bulgarian singer DARA’s victory in Vienna with the dance track “Bangaranga.” The Grand Final will take place at Arena Burgas on May 15, 2027, with the semi-finals scheduled for May 11 and May 13.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Boycotts
Which countries have officially pulled out of the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest?
The Czech public broadcaster has also withdrawn, citing budget and spending cuts rather than geopolitical boycotts.
Where is the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest being held?
The 2027 contest will take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, following singer DARA’s victory in Vienna. The semi-finals are set for May 11 and May 13, with the Grand Final at Arena Burgas on May 15, 2027.
Will viewers in the Netherlands still be able to watch the contest?
Yes. Although NPO will not send a Dutch entry or participate in the competition, NOS will still broadcast the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest on public channels with Dutch commentary.
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