Eurovision’s 70th anniversary controversy over Israel’s participation
Two industry groups have issued statements in relation to the country's place in the contest ahead of next month's Grand Final in Austria
News By Hanna Ellington | 21 April 2026
The build-up to the Eurovision Song Contest’s 70th anniversary edition is being marked by mixed public and industry discourse over Israel’s participation. Israel was approved to participate in next month’s competition, with the final set to take place at Vienna’s Wiener Stadthalle (cap.
16,000), after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) reported the majority of its members voted in favour of the move during a General Assembly late last year.
Following the vote, the broadcasters from Iceland, Ireland,…
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