Netherlands to return to Eurovision after 2026 boycott
BBC News
The Netherlands will return to the Eurovision Song Contest next year despite a boycott by the broadcaster that was previously in charge of the country's participation.
Dutch network Avrotros withdrew in 2026 and said it would also not take part in 2027 because the competition could "no longer be considered neutral" given divisions over Israel's involvement and the Gaza war.
The NPO, which oversees public broadcasting in the country, has now stepped in, saying coverage of the contest will be provided by broadcasting organisation NOS, while an independent panel will select the Dutch participant.
As quoted by Jurre Bosman, NPO's director of media: "It is important that, as a public broadcaster, we remain part of this unifying European event at this moment in particular."
Israel's participation in the contest has become highly controversial, and five countries, including the Netherlands, boycotted this year's event.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has since announced changes to the rules, including excluding any country involved in an armed conflict from hosting the competition. However, Avrotros stated that these changes did "not provide sufficient confidence" in the contest's independence.
In a recent statement, the NPO acknowledged the contest's ability to provoke mixed feelings in the Netherlands but expressed its satisfaction with the EBU's rule adjustments. They also revealed that an independent team of experts will guide the selection process for the Dutch entrant.
Martin Green, Eurovision director, welcomed the Netherlands' return: "We are delighted to welcome the Netherlands back to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027."
Other countries that withdrew from the 2026 contest include Iceland, Spain, Ireland, and Slovenia, while Bulgaria will host the 2027 event after Dara's victory this year with "Bangeranga".
Lastly, it was recently announced that Canada will enter the contest for the first time.