Netherlands could again boycott Eurovision in 2027; Flemish broadcaster wants new policy

Dutch broadcasters NPO and AVROTROS are withholding any decision on participation in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest in Bulgaria, raising the immediate possibility of a second consecutive boycott after sitting out this year’s event in Vienna over Israel’s involvement. In the meantime, the Flemish broadcaster VRT is also threatening to keep Belgium out unless the EBU adopts stricter rules.

Bulgarian pop star DARA won this Eurovision Song Contest with her dance anthem "Bangaranga"; meaning next year’s contest will be held in Bulgaria.

This year, the Netherlands joined Spain, Iceland, Ireland, and Slovenia in skipping the 2026 contest—the first Dutch absence in 24 years—because the European Broadcasting Union did not exclude Israel amid the war in Gaza and allegations of political interference by the Israeli government.

An NPO spokesperson said the public broadcaster is waiting for the EBU’s formal evaluation, due next month, before discussing future participation with AVROTROS.

“It naturally raises the question of whether the Netherlands will stand on the stage in Bulgaria next year,” the spokesperson said. “Before we can say anything about that, we are awaiting the EBU’s evaluation. On that basis, we will enter into talks with AVROTROS.”

The Flemish broadcaster VRT, which aligns with the Netherlands on the issue, is now pushing for tougher rules and warning it may keep Belgium out of the 2027 contest as well. VRT wants EBU member broadcasters to vote on which countries may participate and demands a clear position against war and violence, along with respect for human rights.

“Today, the chance is small that VRT will send an artist next year,” a VRT spokeswoman said. “We expect from the EBU a strong signal against war and violence and for respect for human rights. Those are the values that should connect the festival, and today those are being snowed under too much.”

The broadcaster reportedly sees no indication at all that the EBU is taking its concerns seriously. In December, VRT said the EBU “refuses to open its eyes to the ongoing human suffering in Gaza.” Belgium’s participation alternates between VRT and the French-speaking RTBF. RTBF sent a participant this year.

The Dutch AVROTROS said it followed all developments in Vienna closely and will “first carefully speak with all those involved” before issuing any substantive response on returning.

Eurovision Song Contest director Martin Green said the Dutch absence was felt deeply. “That touches us emotionally,” Green told RTL Nieuws. “You have an important history in this competition and have delivered fantastic music over the years.”

“No one can remain untouched by what is happening in the Middle East. And I have respect for the members who are very passionate about it. But there are 35 countries that are participating,” Green added. He said the organization will “do everything to have the Netherlands back next year."

“The current situation touches us emotionally,” Green said. “The world is currently very complicated, and that leads to complicated situations.”