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Austria confirms Eurovision 2026, despite boycott by some countries
2025-12-07 00:09:22 / BOTA
Austria has announced that it will go ahead with plans to host Eurovision 2026 in Vienna, despite tensions that have arisen following the decision to allow Israel to participate. Four national broadcasters – from Spain, Ireland, Slovenia and the Netherlands – have announced that they will boycott the event, not broadcasting the semi-finals and final, and without sending their participants.
The decision came after a meeting of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in Geneva, where Israel's participation in the 70th edition of the festival was approved. However, Austria remains determined to go ahead as planned, according to ORF, the Austrian national broadcaster. Director-General Roland Weissmann said the absence of some countries could have a financial impact but would not harm the organization of the show.
Austria and Germany were among the strongest countries in support of Israel, while German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul stressed that culture should connect people, not serve as a political instrument.
Among the boycotting countries, the Netherlands has been participating since the first Eurovision Song Contest in 1956, while Ireland shares the record for most wins, with seven awards. Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin called the decision an "act of solidarity."
For now, other countries, including Sweden, have confirmed their participation. The EBU announced that security measures will be increased and that the festival will take place as planned, maintaining the tradition of the world's largest live music event.
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