Dutch broadcaster cancels 2027 Eurovision entry after Israel dispute

The Netherlands will not send a singer to the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, a decision announced Tuesday by the Dutch public broadcasting group NPO. This move reverses a commitment made last month to return to the competition after missing the 2026 edition.

NPO media director Jurre Bosman stated that Israel's participation in the contest generates strong reactions within Dutch society. He noted that the issue causes discussion and division, leading the organization to forgo entry in 2027. The network previously pledged to bring a Dutch entry back to the stage next year following the withdrawal of the channel Avrotros from the 2026 event.

NPO chair Jet de Ranitz explained that initial talks with broadcasters suggested enough support existed for a return. However, the group failed to agree on a suitable format for participation. She described the current moment as too early for re-entry, adding that the organization decided to take a step back for the time being due to the sensitivities involved.

The Netherlands is one of five countries that boycotted the 2026 contest. That group also included Iceland, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia. The boycotts stemmed from criticism of Israel's military actions in Gaza and the wider Middle East region. Ireland will also sit out the 2027 competition, while the head of the Spanish public broadcaster has voiced support for a similar boycott.

The Czech public broadcaster has also withdrawn from the 2027 contest, though it cited spending cuts rather than the political dispute. Meanwhile, NPO confirmed that the contest will still be broadcast on Dutch television despite the absence of a national entry. The network acknowledged that some fans may be disappointed by the decision.

Martin Green, the director of the Eurovision Song Contest, expressed regret over the Dutch absence but said organizers respect the strength of feeling behind the decision. He noted that opinions on the contest differ widely within and between countries. Green argued that the event remains a vital moment of unity in a divided world, bringing people together around music and creativity. Organizers said they look forward to welcoming a Dutch entry again when the time is right.

The 2027 contest is scheduled to take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, on 15 May. The host city was determined by the results of the 2026 competition in Vienna. The Danish entry, Dara, won the title with the dance track Bangaranga.