Ireland will not take part in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, public broadcaster RTÉ has confirmed, extending the country’s absence from the competition.
Reuters reported that Ireland was among several broadcasters that did not participate in the 2026 edition in protest over Israel’s inclusion. RTÉ has now said its position will continue into next year.
A cultural event drawn into geopolitical debate
Eurovision is organized by the European Broadcasting Union and is formally presented as a non-political entertainment competition. In practice, the event has repeatedly become a venue for disputes over wars, national representation and broadcaster decisions.
Ireland is historically one of Eurovision’s most successful countries, so its continued absence is significant for both fans and organizers. The decision may also increase pressure on the EBU to explain how it applies participation rules across politically contentious cases.
The boycott does not mean Irish artists are barred from other international music events, and it does not determine the positions of other broadcasters. Each participating national broadcaster makes its own decision within EBU rules.
