AVROTROS has decided not to take part in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2026. This decision follows an extensive consultation process involving a broad range of stakeholders, including the Israeli ambassador, Amnesty International, the EBU, various European public broadcasters, the Association Council, Works Council, Supervisory Board, and thousands of Song Contest fans who reached out to AVROTROS. After weighing all considerations, AVROTROS concludes that participation under the current circumstances is not compatible with the public values they consider essential. The decision was taken in close consultation with the NPO (Dutch union of public broadcasters), which supports and respects this conclusion.
Reflection on the process
On 12 September 2025, AVROTROS stated that the severe humanitarian suffering in Gaza, the suppression of press freedom, and the political interference seen during the most recent edition of the Song Contest conflict with the core values of AVROTROS. In that context, they concluded that participation by the Israeli broadcaster KAN was no longer compatible with the responsibilities of a public broadcaster. Reliability, independence, and humanity have guided the AVROTROS’ position throughout.
EBU response and developments
The EBU has acknowledged that political interference occurred during the previous contest and has announced additional measures to prevent a recurrence. However, these steps do not undo what happened. During today’s General Assembly, the decision was made that Israel may participate in 2026. At the same time, it became clear that multiple European broadcasters continue to hold significant concerns about the contest’s political neutrality.
Conclusion
The events of the past year, ranging from violations of universal values, such as humanity and press freedom to political interference in last year’s contest have brought the Dutch to a clear boundary. Despite the measures introduced since, these issues remain decisive for AVROTROS. Moreover, the situation in Gaza remains extremely fragile and deeply concerning. At this moment, there is no substantial or stable improvement that would justify participation based on AVROTROS’ values.
Statement from Taco Zimmerman, Managing Director of AVROTROS
“This has been a difficult decision, and we have taken it with great care. We deeply value the Song Contest; culture connects people, but not at any price. The events of the past year have pushed us to our limits. Universal values like humanity and press freedom have been severely violated, and these are non-negotiable for us. Additionally, last year’s political interference showed that the contest’s independence and unifying nature can no longer be assumed. As a public broadcaster, we must uphold our core values—even when it is complex or vulnerable.”
AVROTROS will therefore not broadcast the Eurovision Song Contest in 2026. The NPO will ensure that Dutch viewers and fans can still watch the event next year.
Note: The Netherlands is one of the only countries which has a union as a public broadcaster, NPO, and one of the members of this union is AVROTROS.