Summary
Iceland has decided to not participate in next year's Eurovision Song Contest due to Israel's involvement in the competition. Other countries like Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia are also boycotting the event for the same reason. These nations are protesting Israel’s actions in Gaza and believe the contest should not include Israel.
Key Facts
- Iceland's national broadcaster, RÚV, announced it will not join Eurovision next year due to issues with Israel's participation.
- Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, and Slovenia are also not participating for similar reasons.
- The European Broadcasting Union manages Eurovision and recently met to discuss Israel’s involvement.
- The EBU decided to change voting rules but did not expel Israel.
- Iceland has never won Eurovision but has the highest per capita viewers for the contest.
- The walkout by these countries affects Eurovision’s atmosphere and finances.
- Russia was previously expelled in 2022 due to its invasion of Ukraine.
- More than two dozen countries still plan to participate in next year’s contest in Vienna.
