The Netherlands will return to the Eurovision Song Contest starting in 2027, according to the national public broadcaster (NPO). The NPO is stepping in to replace AVROTROS, the previous broadcaster that withdrew in August over concerns that the event was no longer neutral due to the Gaza conflict.
NPO replaces AVROTROS to ensure Dutch participation in 2027
The NPO confirmed it will participate in the contest from 2027 onwards with a Dutch act, utilizing an independent team of experts to guide the selection process. Jurre Bosman, NPO’s director of media, stated that it is important for the public broadcaster to remain part of the “unifying European event” at this specific time.
This decision follows a withdrawal by AVROTROS in August. That broadcaster argued the event could “no longer be considered neutral” because of divisions surrounding the war in Gaza. While the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has since updated contest rules, AVROTROS previously claimed those changes didn’t provide enough confidence that neutrality had been restored.
Did you know? The Netherlands first entered the Eurovision Song Contest in 1956 and has won the competition five times.
EBU rule changes and the impact of Gaza conflict boycotts
The Eurovision Song Contest has faced a series of boycotts driven by protests over Israel’s participation and its offensive in Gaza, which began after Hamas militant attacks in 2023. In response to these tensions, organizers announced in August that any country involved in an armed conflict would be excluded from hosting the competition.
The NPO acknowledged that the contest evokes “mixed feelings” within the Netherlands. According to the broadcaster, they have explicitly requested that the EBU prioritize the “unifying character” of the festival. This shift comes as the contest struggles with viewership; the 2026 competition drew 131 million viewers, a drop of 35 million from the previous year.
Comparing national responses: The Netherlands vs. Ireland
While the Netherlands has found a path back to the contest via the NPO, other nations remain opposed. RTÉ has confirmed that Ireland will not participate in the 2027 contest and will not broadcast the event.
RTÉ cited the ongoing humanitarian crisis and loss of life in Gaza as the reason for its unchanged position. The Irish broadcaster also expressed deep concern regarding the continued denial of access for international journalists to the territory.
| Country | 2027 Status | Primary Reason Cited |
|---|---|---|
| Netherlands | Participating | NPO replaces AVROTROS; emphasis on unity |
| Ireland | Not Participating | Gaza humanitarian crisis and journalist access |
Upcoming contest details in Burgas, Bulgaria
The next contest is scheduled for May 15 in Burgas, Bulgaria. This marks the first time the Balkan nation will host the event. Bulgaria earned the hosting right after singer Darina Yotova, known as Dara, won the previous contest in Vienna with the song “Bangaranga.”
The Netherlands’ history with the event includes significant global success. Their 2019 winner, Duncan Laurence, released “Arcade,” which became the first Eurovision entry to reach one billion streams on Spotify, according to the Eurovision website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did AVROTROS leave Eurovision?
AVROTROS withdrew in August, stating the event could no longer be seen as neutral due to the conflict in Gaza.
Will Ireland be in the 2027 contest?
No. RTÉ confirmed Ireland will not participate or broadcast the 2027 competition.
Where is the next Eurovision being held?
The contest will take place on May 15 in Burgas, Bulgaria.
Join the Conversation: Do you think the EBU’s new rules are enough to restore the “unifying character” of the contest? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.