SBS releases statement on Israel and Australia's participation at Eurovision 2026

Australia's broadcaster SBS has released a statement on the growing issue of Israel competing at Eurovision in 2026.

In the last week, Spain, Slovenia, Ireland, and the Netherlands have stated that they will not compete at the Contest in Vienna next year if Israel participates.

Many other broadcasters have commented on their participation, with Australia addressing the situation in a statement to TV Tonight.

"SBS has been broadcasting the Eurovision song contest for over 40 years, sharing this global celebration of diversity and inclusion with all Australians,” a spokesperson said.

“SBS intends to continue this tradition with its participation in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest. The decision regarding Israel’s participation in Eurovision will be made by the EBU over the coming months."

Current situation with the EBU

In response to the possible boycotting of next year's competition, Director (And Interim Executive Supervisor) of Eurovision, Martin Green CBE, released a statement.

"We understand the concerns and deeply held views around the ongoing conflict in the Middle East," he said.

"We are still consulting with all EBU Members to gather views on how we manage participation and geopolitical tensions around the Eurovision Song Contest."

Martin Green CBE (Image: EBU)

A vote on Israel's participation has been flagged for December.

Broadcasters will have until mid-December to confirm if they wish to take part in next year's event in Vienna.

This deadline has been extended compared to previous years.

The president of Spain's broadcaster RTVE, José Pablo López, is hoping the decision can be made before then.

"Our hope is that a decision can be reached well before December, as the EBU must be aware of the serious damage being done to the Eurovision song contest, which will mark its 70th anniversary in 2026,” he said.

“Therefore, we hope this decision will be made earlier and that the EBU won’t be subjected to the stress of a last-minute vote in London in December. We believe that, for the good of the festival and the values ​​it has championed since its inception, this matter must be resolved before the scheduled assembly.”

Groups call on SBS to boycott

It appears SBS intends to compete regardless of the decision, and with added pressure from advocacy groups.

According to Guardian Australia, The Greens and the Australia Palestine Advocacy Network (APAN) have called on SBS to boycott Eurovision 2026 if Israel is allowed to compete.

Greens foreign affairs spokesperson Senator David Shoebridge said “The glitz, the sparkles and the music of Eurovision should not be put above human rights.”

“Slovenia, Ireland, the Netherlands and others have said they won’t be singing if Eurovision 2026 gives Israel the world’s stage to whitewash a genocide, and it’s time Australia joined their principled call,” he said.

APAN president Nasser Mashni added: “These events should be reserved for countries who play by the internationally agreed rules and aren’t committing genocide.”

“If they are allowed to participate, it’s the obligation of other countries to boycott.”

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