In the aftermath of Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS declining to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2027, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has released a statement.
EBU statement regarding AVROTROS and Eurovision 2027
Yesterday, AVROTROS the broadcaster responsible for The Netherlands’ participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, announced it would not return to the contest following its boycott of Eurovision 2026. In response to AVROTROS, Eurovision’s director Martin Green CBE issued a statement on behalf of the EBU.
“We regret AVROTROS’ decision to no longer participate in the Eurovision Song Contest but understand their choice and respect the views of our member broadcasters.
The Eurovision Song Contest has always been a place to bring people together, celebrate diverse communities, and show that a better world is possible even in the most difficult times.
We will now continue our dialogue with NPO, the umbrella organization for Dutch public service media, regarding the opportunities for another broadcaster to participate.
We very much hope that audiences and artists in the Netherlands can continue to be represented in the Eurovision Song Contest.”
Martin Green CBE (Director Eurovision Song Contest)
Last year, AVROTROS withdrew from the contest in the aftermath of the EBU General Assembly. Tensions surrounding Israel’s continued participation were a contributing factor. However, NOS and NTR still aired the contest and provided commentary. In total, five broadcasters withdrew from Eurovision 2026 including, Iceland (RÚV), Ireland (RTÉ), Spain (RTVE) and Slovenia (RTVSLO). So far, AVROTROS is the only broadcaster to continue its boycott.
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