One of the seven founding countries of the Eurovision Song Contest is threatening to boycott the 2027 edition, as the controversy over Israel's participation continues to escalate. Belgium's Flemish broadcaster VRT has indicated it does not plan to send an act to the next contest, which is scheduled to be held in Bulgaria, unless the European Broadcasting Union takes decisive action to address what it perceives as mismanagement of the competition.
VRT's Stance on Eurovision 2027
Yasmine Van der Borght, a spokesperson for VRT, stated: 'Today, the chances are slim that VRT will send an artist next year. We expect the EBU to make a clear statement against war and violence and for respect for human rights. Therefore, we are asking for a clear framework for participation, an open debate and a direct vote among EBU members. So far, we have received an insufficient response to this.'
Van der Borght added that even during the semi-finals of the 2026 contest, VRT received no signal that the EBU was hearing their concerns. 'Naturally, we want to discuss this with other broadcasters. But if the EBU's position does not change, the chances are slim that VRT will send an artist next year.' She emphasized the need for an objective framework similar to other international organizations, specifying conditions for participation that are currently lacking.
Background: Israel's Participation and EBU Controversies
The EBU has faced intense criticism in recent years over Israel's presence in the competition amid its military actions in Palestine, which have resulted in over 70,000 Palestinian deaths and widespread destruction in Gaza. The controversy peaked ahead of the 2026 contest when a New York Times investigation revealed that the Israeli government had partially funded a voting campaign encouraging the diaspora to vote multiple times for Israel's entry. Social media posts from Israeli government accounts, including that of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, also urged multiple voting.
This year, the EBU implemented new rules limiting the public vote to 10 per person (down from 20) and discouraging disproportionate promotion campaigns by third parties, including governments. However, the EBU was forced to issue a formal warning to Israel's broadcaster just days before the 2026 contest in Vienna.
Russia Precedent and EBU's Inconsistency
Critics point to the EBU's handling of Russia's participation as a double standard. Russia was banned from Eurovision in 2022 following its invasion of Ukraine, and has remained barred since. Many argue that similar principles should apply to Israel, but the EBU has not taken comparable action, leading to accusations of inconsistency and political bias.
Belgium's threat adds to a growing list of countries that have boycotted or threatened to boycott the contest over Israel's involvement. In 2026, Spain and Ireland were among those that did not participate. The 2027 contest in Bulgaria now faces the prospect of further withdrawals, potentially undermining the event's unity and credibility.
The EBU has not yet publicly responded to VRT's demands. Metro has contacted Eurovision for comment.
