RTÉ Director General Rules Out Eurovision Return Over Israel Involvement
Ireland cannot rejoin the Eurovision Song Contest unless Israel is excluded from the competition or a significant change occurs in Gaza and the West Bank, RTÉ Director General Kevin Bakhurst reported. Speaking on the RTÉ podcast Behind the Story, Bakhurst stated that RTÉ ruled out participating in the 2026 and 2027 contests after previously calling participation “unconscionable” given ongoing humanitarian crises in the region.
Ireland and Other Nations Boycott Eurovision 2026
Ireland joins Iceland, the Netherlands, Spain, and Slovenia in boycotting the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest. RTÉ also confirmed it will not broadcast the event, stating the coverage cannot be justified given the ongoing loss of life in Gaza. Bakhurst noted that while some European broadcasters face deeply divided public opinion at home, the decision was straightforward for the Irish broadcaster because of clear public sentiment in Ireland.
European Broadcasting Union Stance on Israel
Bakhurst told RTÉ listeners that he does not believe the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) will remove Israel from the competition. Run by its member public service broadcasters, the EBU faces strong opposition to any exclusion from major members such as the UK, Germany, France, and Austria. Bakhurst added that he does not criticize the EBU, noting the organization is treading a very difficult line amid clashing viewpoints across participating nations.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Eurovision Boycott
Why did RTÉ decide to boycott the Eurovision Song Contest?
RTÉ stated that participation and broadcasting cannot be justified given the appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis, alongside where the Irish audience and public stand on the issue.
Which countries have joined Ireland in boycotting the event?
Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands, Spain, and Slovenia have all decided to boycott the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest.
Does RTÉ expect the EBU to remove Israel from the competition?
Kevin Bakhurst stated he does not believe it is possible for the European Broadcasting Union to remove Israel because there are enough significant members who publicly oppose excluding the country.