As Vienna prepares to host the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, the event is overshadowed by boycotts and media blackouts over Israel's participation. Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia, and Iceland have withdrawn, marking an unprecedented moment in the contest's history. The grand final on Saturday will proceed without these nations, traditionally among the largest financial contributors and most successful participants.
The boycotts stem from Israel's inclusion despite criticism over its military actions in Gaza. Critics accuse the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) of double standards, noting Russia was barred after its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The political row has also affected fan communities, with some sites refusing to cover the event.
Viewing figures are expected to drop significantly. The final will not be broadcast in Ireland, Slovenia, or Spain, where nearly 5.9 million viewers watched in 2025. In Spain, RTVE will air its own musical special; Irish viewers will see the film Mummies; and Slovenia will broadcast programmes about Palestine. The Netherlands and Iceland are showing the event but have not submitted contestants.
Cultural historian Irving Wolther noted that financing Eurovision will become harder as public broadcasters face cuts across Europe. “The political rows don’t help, of course,” he said. Historian Paul Jordan described the buildup as “a little bit sad,” adding that Eurovision is meant to be joyous but this year feels anticlimactic.
Despite the tensions, Eurovision director Martin Green has promised a spectacular show celebrating the contest's ability to unite people. A new app feature will offer archival data. However, rallies are planned in Vienna, including a pro-Palestinian protest on Friday expected to draw 3,000 people.
The EBU recently announced an expansion into Asia, with the first Eurovision Asia contest set for November in Bangkok. But the current edition's troubles may have long-term consequences for the event's future.
