Members of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) held a crucial general meeting on Thursday in Geneva, where the big question was whether Israel’s public broadcaster, Radio and Television, would be able to participate in Eurovision 2026. The answer was yes, Israel will participate in the competition. For her part, Spain, which is firm on its decision, will not be a part Of the countries competing in this edition.
In the statement published to explain the decision, the EBU ensures that its members “have shown clear support for the reforms aimed at strengthening confidence and protecting the neutrality of the Eurovision Song Contest. This vote means that all EBU members who wish to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 and You agree to comply with the new rules to be eligible to participate“.
Here is the full statement from the European Union
Members of the European Broadcasting Union, meeting today at the General Assembly in Geneva, have approved a set of specific changes to the Eurovision rules designed to enhance trust, transparency and impartiality in the event.
This vote means that all EBU members who wish to participate in Eurovision 2026 and agree to abide by the new rules are eligible to do so.
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Attendees, representing EBU members, were invited to vote in a secret ballot on whether they were sufficiently satisfied with the measures and safeguards announced last month, without having to vote on participation in next year’s event.
A large majority of members agreed that an additional vote on participation was not necessary and that the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 should go ahead as planned, with additional safeguards in place.
Before the vote, there was a wide-ranging discussion in which members expressed a variety of views on participating in Eurovision. Many took the opportunity to stress the importance of protecting the independence of public media and the freedom of the press to report, especially in conflict zones such as Gaza.
After the vote, EBU President Delphine Ernot-Conce said:
“The result of this vote demonstrates our members’ shared commitment to protecting transparency and trust in the Eurovision Song Contest, the world’s largest live music event. “I would like to thank all members for their thoughtful, respectful and constructive contributions during today’s session and throughout the extensive consultation process undertaken this year.
These discussions have led to significant changes to the rules of the Eurovision Song Contest, ensuring that it remains a space of unity and cultural exchange.
Following the vote, broadcast companies will now be asked to confirm their participation in the 2026 edition. The full list of participants for the 70th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will be announced before Christmas.