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Thirty-six countries will take part in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest in Bulgaria, organizers said, while three nations are staying away again over Israel’s participation and two others have yet to decide.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) said national broadcasters from 36 countries will compete at the contest in May in the Black Sea city of Burgas, in eastern Bulgaria.
Ireland, the Netherlands and Iceland confirmed they will boycott the event for a second year in protest at Israel’s inclusion.
Spain and Slovenia, which also stayed away from this year’s contest, have not said whether they will return.
The European Broadcasting Union said it is "aware of the complexity of the issue" and has given both broadcasters until December to confirm whether they will take part.
The five countries pulled out of the 2026 contest over the war in Gaza and the humanitarian crisis it caused.
Israel’s participation has fueled growing controversy around the contest in recent years.
After Israel came close to winning in both 2025 and 2026, the EBU changed its rules earlier this year to stop countries involved in armed conflict or any "sensitive geopolitical situation" from hosting the event.
The winning country typically hosts the next year’s contest.
The 2027 field will include some changes. Canada will compete for the first time, and North Macedonia returns after a four-year absence. The Czech Republic will not take part for financial reasons.
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