Home / Arts and Entertainment / Eurovision 2027 Boycott Grows: Ireland and Netherlands Out
Eurovision 2027 Boycott Grows: Ireland and Netherlands Out
17 Sep
Summary
- Ireland and the Netherlands will not participate in Eurovision 2027.
- Both countries cite concerns over Israel's participation and the Gaza crisis.
- Bulgaria will host Eurovision 2027 in Arena Burgas.
Ireland's public broadcaster, RTÉ, has confirmed it will not participate in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest. This marks the second consecutive year Ireland has opted out of the competition. In 2026, RTÉ withdrew from the contest held in Vienna due to Israel's participation.
RTÉ stated that Ireland's participation "cannot be justified given the appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis." The broadcaster also expressed concern over restricted access for international journalists to the Gaza territory.
Similarly, Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS announced its withdrawal from Eurovision 2027. They declared the competition can no longer be considered neutral while a participating nation is involved in large-scale military conflict.
Ireland, a seven-time winner of Eurovision between 1970 and 1996, shares a joint record with Sweden for the most wins. The 2027 contest is set to take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, with the Grand Final scheduled for May 15, 2027, at Arena Burgas.
Bulgaria secured hosting rights after DARA's victory in the 2026 contest. The 2023-2024 conflict in Gaza, which began after Hamas's attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, has led to significant loss of life.
