DUBLIN: Ireland will not participate in the Eurovision Song Contest for the second consecutive year, with national broadcaster RTÉ citing concerns over the ongoing humanitarian situation in Gaza and Israel’s participation in the competition.
RTÉ said Ireland’s involvement in the 2027 contest “cannot be justified” due to the continuing loss of civilian lives and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The broadcaster also confirmed it would not air the event, which is scheduled to take place in Bulgaria after Dara won the 2026 competition.
Growing list of boycotts
Ireland’s decision follows a similar announcement by Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS, which said last month that participation was no longer consistent with its principles of trustworthiness, independence and humanity.
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Both Ireland and the Netherlands were among five countries that did not participate in the 2026 Eurovision contest, alongside Iceland, Slovenia and Spain.
Eurovision director Martin Green said he regretted RTÉ’s decision but respected the broadcaster’s position, adding that he hoped Ireland would return to the competition in the future.
Eurovision faces political pressure
The debate comes as the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has introduced changes to contest rules amid concerns linked to geopolitical issues.
Under updated rules, broadcasters may be unable to host Eurovision if their country is involved in armed conflict or a sensitive geopolitical situation that could affect safety and stability.
The changes follow previous adjustments, including the decision to hold the 2023 contest in Liverpool instead of Ukraine after Russia’s invasion, despite Ukraine winning the previous year.
Ireland’s Eurovision record
Ireland remains one of Eurovision’s most successful nations, having won the contest seven times, a record shared with Sweden.
The country’s recent performances have been mixed. Its 2025 entry failed to qualify for the semi-final, while its 2024 entry finished sixth.
The Eurovision Song Contest, organised by the EBU, remains one of the world’s largest live music events, attracting millions of viewers globally. The 2027 competition is expected to continue facing debate over the participation of countries involved in international disputes.
