RTÉ boycotts Eurovision for second year in a row
Irish broadcaster RTÉ has confirmed it will boycott the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, citing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This marks the second consecutive year Ireland has withdrawn from the competition due to Israel's participation.
Why it matters
The boycott reflects growing international pressure and political polarization surrounding cultural events involving Israel during the ongoing conflict.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, In a statement, RTÉ said it feels Ireland's participation "cannot be justified given the appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza"
Irish broadcaster RTÉ will not broadcast or participate in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest.
It is the second year in a row that the broadcaster has not participated in the competition.
In 2026, RTÉ withdrew from the 2026 contest in Vienna , after the European Broadcasting Union confirmed that Israeli public broadcaster KAN would be allowed to take part.
In a statement they said: "RTÉ 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."
Last year Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands and Slovenia boycotted the Eurovision Song Contest, after it was decided Israel could compete.
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