Overview
- EBU members met over two days in Geneva and affirmed that no additional vote on Israel’s participation was required under the new rules.
- Spain’s RTVE, Ireland’s RTE, the Netherlands’ Avrotros and Slovenia’s RTVSLO said they will withdraw from the 2026 contest, with some also forgoing broadcasts.
- The rule package cuts individual televotes from 20 to 10, reintroduces juries for qualification and requires jurors to sign independence declarations.
- Belgium and Iceland signaled decisions are pending, while France confirmed participation and German and Austrian broadcasters backed Israel’s eligibility.
- The 70th edition is slated for May 2026 in Vienna, and the final lineup remains uncertain pending further member announcements.