Netherlands skips 2027 Eurovision after format fails
Public broadcaster NPO reversed its pledge to return, citing division over Israel's presence and the lack of a workable selection method.
By Sarah Reynolds ·
The Netherlands will not send an entry to the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest. NPO, the country's public broadcaster, announced the withdrawal on Tuesday. This decision reverses a pledge made last month that the nation would return to the competition.
NPO media director Jurre Bosman said Israel's participation in the contest causes discussion and division in Dutch society. He stated that NPO has decided to forgo participation in 2027. NPO chair Jet de Ranitz explained that the organization held discussions with other broadcasters about returning. The group initially felt there was sufficient support to compete.
De Ranitz said the broadcasters were unable to find a suitable format for the country to participate. Because of this, she stated it is currently too early for the Netherlands to join the 2027 contest. She cited sensitivities surrounding current themes as the reason for the step back. NPO acknowledged that some Dutch fans may be disappointed by the news. The broadcaster said the contest will still be aired in the Netherlands.
The Netherlands was one of five countries that boycotted the 2026 event. The other four were Iceland, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia. They withdrew over Israel's participation amid criticism of its military actions in Gaza and the Middle East. Dutch network Avrotros originally pulled out of the 2026 contest. It also said it would not take part in 2027. NPO then stepped in last month to pledge a return.
Martin Green, the director of the Eurovision Song Contest, said he was deeply sorry the Netherlands would not take part. He added that organizers understand the decision and respect the strength of feeling behind it. Green noted that opinions about the contest differ widely within and between countries. He said the contest matters in a divided world because it brings people together around music and shared experience.
Organizers have announced changes to address divisions, including excluding any country involved in an armed conflict from hosting. Voting rules have also changed. Ireland will also not take part in 2027. The head of the Spanish public broadcaster supports a boycott. The Czech public broadcaster pulled out due to spending cuts.
The 2027 Eurovision Song Contest is scheduled for May 15. It will take place in Burgas, Bulgaria. The location follows the win of the dance track Bangaranga by Dara in Vienna this year.
Source: BBC News
