Overview
- Switzerland’s 2024 winner said he is sending the glass microphone back to the EBU, arguing Israel’s entry conflicts with the contest’s stated values.
- Public broadcasters in Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia and Iceland have announced they will boycott the 2026 event in Vienna.
- ESC director Martin Green acknowledged fans’ anger in an open letter and reaffirmed the contest’s mission to provide a space to celebrate common ground.
- Nemo referenced a UN inquiry alleging possible genocide by Israeli authorities in Gaza, accusations Israel rejects while pointing to Hamas’s actions.
- Germany’s CSU leader Markus Söder floated a potential German withdrawal, and organizers say final participant lists are expected before Christmas.