Newshour Eurovision in crisis as countries walk out over Israel
Dec 4, 2025
Natalia Gorzčak, the Head of Slovenia's national broadcaster RTV Slovenia, discusses her organization's decision to boycott Eurovision due to Israel's participation. She argues that Israel is an aggressor, drawing a parallel to Russia, while facing challenges around this comparison. Gorzčak raises concerns over inconsistent EBU rules and manipulation of voting. The discussion highlights the influence of politics on the contest and reveals how this boycott represents a significant crisis for Eurovision.
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Eurovision Split Over Israel Participation
- The EBU meeting in Geneva sparked a split as several national broadcasters refused to show or participate in Eurovision over Israel's inclusion.
- This represents a major political fracture in a contest designed to unite countries, risking the show's global reach.
Slovenia's Broadcaster Explains Withdrawal
- Natalia Gorzčak compared Israel's actions to Russia's exclusion after Ukraine, urging consistent application of rules.
- She said Slovenian public anger and petitions influenced RTV Slovenia's decision to withdraw from next year's contest.
Prioritise Cultural Dialogue
- Israel's leaders publicly defended participation and urged Eurovision to remain a cultural, cross-border event.
- The implication is broadcasters should prioritise cultural dialogue over political exclusion to preserve the contest's purpose.