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Eurovision faces boycotts over Israel's participation

May 11, 2026

Summary

Slovenia, Spain, and Ireland are boycotting the Eurovision song contest over Israel's participation, with other countries also declining to take part. This comes as Israel's efforts to influence Eurovision's vote are revealed to have been broader and started years earlier than previously known.

How coverage differs

  • Left: Nations boycott Eurovision as Israel's influence tactics revealed Left-leaning outlets focus on the growing number of countries boycotting Eurovision, explicitly naming Slovenia, Spain, and Ireland. They also highlight how Israel has historically used Eurovision as a 'soft power tool' to influence public perception for years.
  • Center: Eurovision's 70th edition proceeds despite boycott concerns Center outlets report on the general commencement of Eurovision's 70th edition in Vienna, noting the presence of boycotts and the overall atmosphere of 'beats and bling'. They provide a neutral overview of the event's kickoff.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • Slovenia, Spain and Ireland won't air Eurovision over Israel's participation
  • How Israel Turned Eurovision’s Stage Into a Soft Power Tool

Center

  • Boycotts, beats and bling: Eurovision’s 70th edition kicks off in Vienna - The Times of Israel

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