Spanish public broadcaster RTVE has formally requested the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to initiate a debate regarding the participation of Israeli broadcaster KAN in the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, set to take place this May in Basel, Switzerland.
The request comes amid growing concerns within segments of Spanish civil society over the ongoing conflict in Gaza and how it may reflect on Eurovision as a cultural event. In a public statement released on Friday, RTVE outlined its position, stating that while it reaffirms its strong commitment to the Eurovision Song Contest, it believes the EBU should acknowledge the ongoing discussions surrounding Israel’s participation and provide space for dialogue among its member broadcasters.
RTVE Seeks Space for Internal Reflection
In accordance with decisions made by RTVE’s Board of Directors, the broadcaster’s president, José Pablo López, has sent an official letter to EBU Director General Noel Curran. In the letter, RTVE requests the EBU to open an internal debate among its members concerning the presence of Israel’s public broadcaster KAN in the 2025 contest.
RTVE emphasized the importance of Eurovision as a cultural and media event, but also conveyed the serious concerns expressed by various Spanish civil groups. The broadcaster considers it appropriate for the EBU to recognize the existence of such a debate and to facilitate a space for thoughtful reflection and discussion among member broadcasters.
EBU Responds: “All Members Are Eligible to Compete”
The EBU’s response to RTVE’s request was published shortly after via a concise statement on the organization’s official website. While acknowledging the concerns raised, the EBU reiterated its position that all full member broadcasters are eligible to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest.
We welcome RTVE confirming their commitment to the Eurovision Song Contest and appreciate there are concerns and deeply held views around the current conflict in the Middle East. All Members of the EBU are eligible to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest and we remain in constant contact with those participating this year, including RTVE, on all aspects of the Contest — the EBU stated.
The brief response did not address the possibility of revisiting Israel’s participation and instead reinforced the idea that the EBU’s focus remains on the participation of broadcasters, not countries. As long as KAN remains a full EBU member, it retains its eligibility to compete.
Context and Next Steps
This is not the first time broadcaster participation has come under scrutiny due to geopolitical issues. However, unlike in 2024, no broadcaster has formally requested Israel’s removal from the competition so far, as confirmed by RTVE President José Pablo López in a parliamentary hearing earlier this year.
It remains to be seen whether RTVE’s initiative will gain traction among other EBU members or prompt further internal discussions ahead of Eurovision 2025.