Eurovision 2026 in Vienna Sees Record Low of 35 Countries Amid Boycotts
The contest faces its fewest participants since 2004 due to withdrawals over Israel's inclusion, despite returns from Bulgaria, Moldova, and Romania.
Key Points
- 35 participating countries, lowest since 2004.
- Withdrawals by Spain, Ireland, Netherlands, Slovenia, Iceland over Israel controversy.
- Returns of Bulgaria, Moldova, Romania to offset losses.
- Scheduled for May 12-16, 2026 in Vienna amid turbulence.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2026, set for Vienna, Austria in May, will feature just 35 participating countries, the lowest number since early 2004. Organisers confirmed the figure amid mounting tensions over the event's institutional and reputational challenges.
The drop comes against a backdrop of controversy sparked by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU)'s decision to allow Israel to compete, despite widespread political protests and criticism. Earlier this month, several broadcasters withdrew in protest, accusing the EBU of straying from the contest's longstanding principles of staying apolitical.
Notable absences include Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland, which have all formally notified their non-participation. To offset the losses, the EBU has secured the return of three countries absent in recent years: Bulgaria, Moldova, and Romania, which will join the lineup for the competition's 70th edition.
Founded in 1956, Eurovision remains one of the world's most-watched annual TV events, traditionally positioned as a platform for cultural exchange beyond politics. Organisers have maintained the schedule unchanged, with semi-finals on 12 and 14 May 2026, followed by the grand final on 16 May.
The Vienna edition arrives at what organisers describe as one of the most turbulent periods in the contest's history.
Original Sources
This article was aggregated from the following Catalan-language sources: