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Author: derstandard.at
Source: Israel allowed to participate in European Song Contest 2026 in Vienna
**Publication date: 04.12.2025
Reading time of summary: 1 minute
Executive Summary
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) decided at its General Assembly in Geneva that Israel will be allowed to participate in the 70th Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna. In response, the Netherlands has already canceled its participation - for the first time since 1991. Spain and Ireland will also not participate. Vienna's Mayor Ludwig welcomes the EBU's decision.
Core Topic & Context
The question of Israel's participation in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 was controversial for months. The decision was made through a vote of the national television stations at the EBU meeting on Thursday. The competition will take place in the Vienna Stadthalle.
Key Facts
- Israel will be able to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna
- The Netherlands, Spain and Ireland have canceled their participation
- The Netherlands will not participate in the ESC for the first time since 1991
- This will be the 70th Eurovision Song Contest
- The decision was made at the EBU General Assembly in Geneva
Stakeholders & Affected Parties
- European Broadcasting Union (EBU)
- National television stations of participating countries
- City of Vienna as host
- Participating and non-participating countries (especially Israel, Netherlands, Spain, Ireland)
- Vienna's Mayor Ludwig
Relevance for Action
The cancellation by several countries could have implications for the reach and international significance of the competition. Vienna as the host city may face challenges in security planning given the political dimension of the event.
References
Primary source: Israel allowed to participate in European Song Contest 2026 in Vienna