Netherlands makes U-turn over Eurovision 2027 participation
A Dutch broadcaster reverses a decision to take part, citing "sensitivities" over Israel's participation.
The Netherlands has reversed course on its Eurovision 2027 plans and will not take part next year, with public broadcaster NPO pointing to "sensitivities" surrounding Israel's participation.
The Netherlands, along with four other countries, boycotted this year’s contest after Dutch broadcaster Avrotros withdrew. Avrotros had also said it would not join next year’s event, but NPO, which oversees public broadcasting in the country, stepped in and said last month that the Netherlands would return in 2027.
On Tuesday, however, NPO media director Jurre Bosman said that "Israel's participation elicits various reactions in society and causes discussion and division", and that NPO "has decided to forgo participation in 2027".
NPO chair Jet de Ranitz said the broadcaster had spoken with other broadcasters about joining in 2027.
"In those discussions, we initially felt there was sufficient support to return. Unfortunately, we were unable to find a suitable format for this.
"As a result, we must conclude that it is currently too early to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027.
"Due to the sensitivities surrounding the themes currently at play, we have decided to take a step back for the time being."
NPO said some Dutch fans would likely be disappointed, but that the contest would still be shown in the Netherlands.
Eurovision Song Contest director Martin Green said he was "deeply sorry" the Netherlands would not be involved, but added that "we understand their decision, and we respect the strength of feeling behind it".
Green said organisers recognise that views on the contest "differ widely, both within countries and between them", adding: "We do not dismiss any of those views.
"At the same time, we believe the Eurovision Song Contest matters in a divided world. It is one of the few moments each year when people from across Europe and beyond come together around music, creativity and shared experience.
"That spirit of unity is what the contest has always stood for, and we are committed to protecting it."
Green said organisers looked forward to welcoming a Dutch entry again when they "feel the time is right".
The Netherlands, Iceland, Spain, Ireland and Slovenia all boycotted the 2026 contest over Israel's participation, amid criticism of its military actions in Gaza and the Middle East.
Eurovision organisers have announced several changes aimed at easing the divisions, including barring any country involved in an armed conflict from hosting the competition, as well as changes to the voting system.
Alongside the Netherlands, Ireland will also not take part in 2027, and the head of Spain's public broadcaster has also backed a boycott.
The Czech public broadcaster has also withdrawn, but said spending cuts were the reason.
Eurovision 2027 will be held in Burgas, Bulgaria, on 15 May, after Dara won in Vienna this year with the dance track Bangaranga.