THE HAGUE, Oct 27 — The Netherlands will not participate in next year’s Eurovision Song Contest, its public broadcaster NPO said Tuesday, citing “sensitivities” over Israel’s participation.
The Dutch withdrawal is the latest in a series of boycotts from countries unhappy at Israel’s inclusion in the annual music festival, given its military campaign in Gaza sparked by the October 7 Hamas attacks.
“We have known for some time that Israel’s participation elicits various reactions in society and causes discussion and division,” said Jurre Bosman, NPO’s media director, in a statement.
“Therefore, after consultation with the Board of Broadcasters, the NPO has decided to forgo participation in 2027,” added Bosman.
