RTÉ Shuts Eurovision Doors, Bans Israel After Gaza Tragedy

**RTÉ Declares Boycott of 2027 Eurovision Amid Gaza Conflict**

RTÉ announced today that it will neither participate in nor broadcast the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, marking a second consecutive year of boycott amid Israel’s expected involvement in the event. “RT E is today confirming that its position regarding participation in the Eurovision Song Contest remains unchanged.

RT E will not participate in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, nor will RT E broadcast the competition.” The statement highlighted Ireland’s decision to abstain for a second year.

Ireland is the second broadcaster to withdraw, following the Dutch network AVROTROS, which also announced a boycott of the 2027 contest. This move places Ireland alongside the Netherlands as countries taking a stand over Israel’s participation.

Martin Green, director of the Eurovision Song Contest, expressed regret over RTÉ’s decision. “We regret that RT E will not be participating in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, but we fully respect their decision and recognise the huge contribution they have made to the Contest.

They remain a valued part of our family and will be missed.” He also noted the contest’s role in fostering unity amid global divisions.

RTÉ cited the appalling loss of lives in Gaza and the ongoing humanitarian crisis as the basis for its boycott. The broadcaster also voiced deep concern over the continued denial of independent access to international journalists in the territory, a restriction it argues hampers transparency.

In December 2025, European broadcasters voted indirectly to allow Israel’s Kan to participate. Green said the EBU members had spoken “conclusively” and that there would be no further vote. Israel finished second in the 2026 contest, while Bulgaria claimed the top spot.

Bulgaria's victory in 2026 followed Israel’s second-place finish, illustrating the competitive landscape of recent contests.

These developments follow last year’s similar stance, underscoring the growing friction between broadcasters over Israel’s role in international cultural events. The EBU's December 2025 vote was described as “conclusively” settled, with no further voting planned.

RTÉ’s statement underscored its humanitarian concerns: “RT E feels that Ireland’s participation cannot be justified given the appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis there which continues to put the lives of so many civilians at risk.

RT E also remains deeply concerned by the continued denial of independent access to international journalists to the territory.” This announcement reaffirmed the broadcaster’s stance on global responsibility. The broadcaster also pointed out that denying journalists independent access hampers accurate coverage of the conflict.

Green highlighted Eurovision’s unifying power, adding that “All broadcasters decide on an annual basis to participate in the following year’s Contest. We will remain in dialogue with RT E and hope to welcome them back to the Contest in the future.” He emphasized that the event thrives on cross‑national collaboration amid a divided world.

Green emphasized that Eurovision’s unifying power is crucial amid a divided world.

The 2027 Eurovision Song Contest will be staged in Burgas, Bulgaria, with the final set for May 15 at the Arena Burgas. Ireland’s withdrawal does not alter the schedule or venue, but it signals a broader debate over Israel’s involvement in international events.

The decision reflects broader debates about media freedom and humanitarian concerns amid the Gaza conflict.

While RTÉ has not announced a return date, the EBU has expressed willingness to keep discussions open. No official timeline has been set for Ireland’s potential re‑entry, leaving the possibility of future participation uncertain. The EBU’s stance signals readiness for future engagement, but no definitive schedule has emerged.

Ireland’s second consecutive boycott underscores the complex intersection of politics and international entertainment. As the Eurovision community grapples with these tensions, the 2027 contest will proceed amid heightened scrutiny of participant eligibility and global humanitarian concerns.