“Here for music and culture”: Denmark declares it will not support expelling Israel from Eurovision 2026, reinforcing international voices favoring Israel’s continued participation in the contest.
In times when the future of Israel’s participation in Eurovision remains clouded, every international statement is felt as either hope or concern. Last week, it was announced that the EBU decided to move forward the general assembly vote that will determine whether Israel continues to be part of Europe’s biggest stage – Eurovision 2026, set to take place in Vienna, Austria. While many Israeli fans wonder whether the nation will appear or be absent from this historic event, Denmark has now chosen to join the wave of support for Israel’s participation, declaring that it will not support a boycott or removal.
is this a small hint of the atmosphere to be expected in the decisive assembly, or merely a temporary reassurance for Eurovision fans rallying behind the Israeli flag?
Denmark: “We will not vote in favor of expelling Israel”
While some countries signal doubt, Denmark takes a firm stance. Gustav Lützhøft, senior editor of Denmark’s national broadcaster DR, issued a direct statement:
“We will not vote in favor of expelling any EBU member from the competition as long as they comply with the rules and regulations. Denmark’s participation in Eurovision depends on maintaining a strong international community and a non-political framework around the contest, and therefore we will not support Israel’s ejection”.
“We are here for the music and culture”, Lützhøft added, reminding everyone of the contest’s essence – fostering a shared stage of songs, stories, and emotions beyond political borders. This declaration renewed the spirits of many Israeli fans: even as the door seems to close, loyal voices within the Eurovision community offer a reason to breathe easier.
The Assembly Is Moved Forward
The EBU announced that an extraordinary general assembly of its members will be held online at the beginning of November – earlier than expected. This signals considerable importance attached to the issue. The vote will determine whether Israel will be allowed to take part in Eurovision 2026. At this point, it remains unclear whether a special 75% majority will be required, or if a simple 51% majority will suffice.
In a letter signed by the EBU President, Delphine Ernotte-Cunci, and sent to its members, it was highlighted that the recent round of deliberations revealed “an unprecedented range of opinions” regarding Israel’s participation. This diversity of views prevented the reaching of internal consensus. Consequently, it was decided to turn to the democratic mechanism of holding a full assembly in which all members will vote. The official invitation with full details will be circulated next week.
Israel at Eurovision 2025
“New Day Will Rise” is the song performed by Yuval Raphael, who was chosen to represent Israel after winning the 11th season of “HaKokhav HaBa”. Israel advanced to the final after winning the second semi-final with 203 points and finished second overall with 357 points in the grand final. Israel ranked first in the public vote but only 14th with the jury. This marks the third consecutive year that Israel has reached the top five – an unprecedented achievement.
Eurovision 2026: This will be Israel’s 48th participation in Eurovision. Israel joined the contest in 1973 and has won four times. Its most recent victory was at Eurovision 2018 with the song “Toy”, performed by singer Netta Barzilai.
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Ilay Gaist is a leading Israeli content creator and writer specializing in the Eurovision Song Contest. He is a well-known commentator with extensive expertise in the contest’s history, rules, and dynamics. His passion for Eurovision drives him to deliver rich, professional, and innovative content to his audience.
Ilay holds a bachelor’s degree in Arabic and has a multilingual background. He also engages in cultural research, with a particular focus on global culinary traditions and the evolution of local cuisines around the world.
