Eurovision Faces Calls for Debate Over Israel's Participation

Spanish broadcaster RTVE urges the EBU to address concerns tied to Gaza conflict ahead of the May event in Basel.

RTVE has formally requested the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to hold a debate on the inclusion of Israeli public broadcaster KAN in Eurovision 2025, citing humanitarian concerns in Gaza.
The EBU acknowledged the concerns raised but reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining Eurovision as an apolitical cultural event, emphasizing ongoing dialogue with all participating broadcasters.
This year’s Israeli entrant, Yuval Raphael, is a survivor of the October 7, 2023 attack and will perform 'New Day Will Rise' at the contest in Basel, Switzerland.
Civil society groups and industry professionals across Europe have amplified calls for a ban on Israel’s participation, with petitions gaining significant traction in countries like Spain and Finland.
Eurovision 2025 is scheduled to take place in Basel, with semi-finals on May 13 and 15 and the grand final on May 17.