Netherlands confirms it will skip 2027 Eurovision

The Netherlands will not take part in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, the Dutch public broadcasting umbrella organisation NPO has confirmed, reversing an earlier move to organise the country’s return. ERR reported the decision.

AVROTROS, the Dutch broadcaster, announced earlier this year that the Netherlands would also skip this year’s contest, citing Israel’s participation and the continuing war in Gaza. Last month, NPO said it would take responsibility for organising the country’s participation.

The proposed return drew widespread criticism. Dozens of complaints were filed with the public broadcasters’ ombudsman, and about 400 NPO employees signed a letter urging the organisation to reconsider.

NPO board chair Jet de Ranitz said the organisation had initially believed there was enough support for the Netherlands to return, but had been unable to find a suitable way to organise its participation. “We have not managed to find an appropriate organisational solution. We must therefore conclude that it is still too early to take part in Eurovision 2027,” she said.

NPO media director Jurre Bosman said Israel’s participation continued to cause debate and disagreement in Dutch society and among broadcasters and their staff. He said NPO would send an artist to Eurovision only if at least one broadcaster fully supported taking part.

The Dutch broadcaster NOS will still air next year’s contest, with commentary in Dutch and a programme introducing the competition.

Eurovision director Martin Green said he regretted the Netherlands’ decision but that the European Broadcasting Union understood and respected it. He said broadcasters should carefully consider the issues and discuss them with their communities, while adding that Eurovision could bring people together through music and a shared experience.

Ireland will also boycott next year’s contest because of Israel’s participation. The head of Spain’s public broadcaster has voiced support for a boycott, while Czechia has withdrawn because of financial concerns. The 2027 contest is scheduled to take place in Burgas, Bulgaria.