Israel is set to take part in the Eurovision Song Contest after the European Broadcasting Union general assembly called off a vote over its participation.
Next year’s contest, which will be the 70th Eurovision, is set to take place in Austria from May 12-16.
Golan Yochpaz, CEO of Israeli broadcaster and EBU member KAN, told the gathered assembly: “The attempt to remove KAN from the contest can only be understood as a cultural boycott. A boycott may begin today – with Israel – but no one knows where it will end or who else it may harm. Are public broadcasters and independent journalistic institutions prepared to sign their names to a cultural boycott? Are EBU members willing to be part of a step that harms freedom of creation and freedom of expression? And is this what we truly want this contest to be remembered for on its 70th anniversary?”
Ireland, Spain, Slovenia and the Netherlands have all said they intend to boycott next year’s competition if Israel participates. At this year’s contest the Netherlands came in 12th place while Spain finished in the bottom three. Slovenia and Ireland failed to qualify.
Israel came second place in the competition after a survivor of the Oct. 7 massacre, Yuval Raphel, performed ballad “A New Day Will Rise.” Austria’s act JJ came in first place with “Wasted Love.”
While EBU members agreed there was “no need for a further vote on participation,” they did vote on “new measures and safeguards” for the upcoming contest, which include a different make-up of judging panels as well as fewer audience votes.
“The result of this vote demonstrates our members’ shared commitment to protecting transparency and trust in the Eurovision Song Contest, the world’s largest live music event,” said EBU president Delphine Ernotte Cunci.
“I would like to thank all members for their thoughtful, respectful and constructive contributions during today’s session and throughout the extensive consultation process undertaken this year. These discussions have led to meaningful changes to the rules of the Eurovision Song Contest, ensuring it remains a place for unity and cultural exchange.”
