Madrid, Spain – Web Desk: Spain’s public broadcaster has announced a boycott of the Eurovision Song Contest following controversy over Israel’s participation in the annual European music competition.
According to international media reports, Spain’s state broadcaster refused to air the Eurovision 2026 event, marking a significant shift in its long-standing coverage of the contest.
Reports said that for the first time since 1961, Spain opted to broadcast alternative programming instead of the live competition. During the event held in Vienna, the Spanish broadcaster aired a statement expressing support for Palestine.
In its official statement, the broadcaster said that Eurovision is a music competition, not a reflection of human rights values, adding that there is “no place for indifference” and calling for peace and justice for Palestinians.
Media reports further indicate that Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland also joined the boycott in response to similar concerns regarding Israel’s participation.
The development highlights growing political tensions surrounding international cultural events amid the ongoing Middle East conflict.
