The decision by five nations to boycott the song contest comes amid Israel’s genocide in Gaza.
Five nations are boycotting Eurovision, citing Israel’s participation. Their action is against Israel’s war in Gaza and allegations of vote manipulation in the song contest.
But why is it so important for Israel to take part? And is the competition’s future under threat?
Presenter: Folly Bah Thibault
Guests:
Steve Wall – Musician, actor and member of the Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign
Jonathan Hendrickx – Assistant professor in media studies at the University of Copenhagen
Ori Goldberg – Political commentator
Published On 13 May 2026
