Newsletters
Chancellor Friedrich Merz says Germany should pull out of next year’s Eurovision in Vienna if Israel is barred from participating. Speaking on the ARD talk show "Caren Miosga," Merz described the potential exclusion as a "scandal," asserting, "Israel belongs there."
Germany is one of the "Big Five" countries in Eurovision, along with France, Italy, Spain and the U.K., contributing significant financial support to the contest. Merz's statement underscores Germany's commitment to Israel's participation, highlighting the political dimensions influencing the cultural event.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is set to hold a special general assembly in early November to vote on Israel's participation in the 2026 contest. This decision comes amid widespread protests from various countries, including Spain, Ireland, Iceland, Slovenia and the Netherlands all of which have threatened to withdraw if Israel is allowed to compete.
Despite the controversy, Israeli broadcaster Kan has confirmed its intention to participate in Eurovision 2026. The broadcaster maintains that Israel's involvement is a cultural matter, separate from political considerations.
3 min read
