Netherlands confirms Eurovision return as Spain weighs continued boycott
Despite broadcaster AVROTROS maintaining its concerns over Israel’s participation and the war in Gaza, the Netherlands will return to Eurovision in 2027, with the country’s entry now being coordinated by the NPO.
Published on 24/09/2026 - 11:23 GMT+2
The Netherlands will return to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, despite the broadcaster previously responsible for the country’s participation (AVROTROS) continuing to oppose a return.
Dutch network AVROTROS withdrew from the 2026 contest and has said it would also not take part in 2027, arguing that the competition could "no longer be considered neutral" amid Israel’s participation and the war in Gaza.
"It is undeniable that international conflicts are increasingly affecting the Contest, undermining its neutral character. The Eurovision Song Contest has therefore become a platform for division," said Taco Zimmerman, Director-General of AVROTROS.
The NPO, which oversees public broadcasting in the Netherlands, has now taken responsibility for the country’s entry. Coverage of the contest will be provided by broadcaster NOS, while "an independent team of experts" will select the Dutch act.
Jurre Bosman, NPO's director of media, said: "It is important that, as a public broadcaster, we remain part of this unifying European event at this moment in particular."
Eurovision director Martin Green said in a statement: "We are delighted to welcome the Netherlands back to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027. We value the constructive conversations we have had with NPO and look forward to working together to reinforce the Contest as a place that truly reflects the spirit of 'United By Music'."
The decision comes as Eurovision continues to face widespread controversy over Israel’s participation. Five countries - Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain - withdrew from the 2026 contest over the issue.
Ireland has already confirmed it will boycott Eurovision for a second year in 2027, citing the "appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza".
Spain is also considering extending its boycott. RTVE president José Pablo López said this week that he would recommend that Spain remain out of the 2027 contest, saying it was “deeply painful” that Israel’s public broadcaster would remain eligible to compete "despite everything, and given this situation that is still being experienced in Gaza." A final decision has not been made by RTVE yet.
Next year's Eurovision Song Contest is being held at the Arena Burgas in Burgas, Bulgaria.
