ESC: Waiting for Decision on Israel Comes to an End

The decision on whether Israel will participate in the 70th Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna is pending. On Thursday and Friday, a general assembly of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) will take place in Geneva. A package of rule changes will be presented to the member broadcasters to ensure the impartiality of the ESC in the future. Only if this is deemed insufficient will a vote take place. The ORF has supported Israel.

ESC with or without Israel?

Several countries - including key ESC nations like Spain and Ireland - have threatened to boycott in light of the Gaza war if Israel participates in May at the world's largest music competition, which is followed by around 150 million people, in the Vienna Stadthalle. A vote would thus represent a test for the EBU. ORF chief Roland Weißmann recently expressed optimism that, despite the discussion, a "record number" of ESC participants could be welcomed in the federal capital next year. He wanted to work behind the scenes to persuade others. The EBU plans to publish the full list of participating broadcasters before Christmas.

(APA/Red)

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