Poland’s Culture Minister calls for Eurovision boycott if ‘Israel’ competes

The Polish Minister of Culture and National Heritage, Marta Cienkowska, has called for her country to boycott Eurovision 2026 if ‘Israel’ remains in the lineup.

Momentum is building across Europe for a boycott of next year’s Eurovision Song Contest if 'Israel' remains part of the lineup, with broadcasters and politicians increasingly voicing opposition.

The 70th edition of the contest is scheduled to take place in May 2026 at Vienna’s Wiener Stadthalle. While organizers, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and Austrian broadcaster ORF, have insisted the event will proceed as planned, their decision to allow 'Israel' to compete has fueled a wave of backlash.

Several European public broadcasters, including those in the Netherlands, Ireland, Slovenia, and Spain, have openly stated they may pull out if 'Israel' takes the stage. Iceland has already suspended its promotional activities linked to Eurovision, and doubts are being raised in Belgium, Sweden, and San Marino.

The controversy has spilled into politics as well. Poland’s Cienkowska weighed in during an interview with TOK FM, saying she believes her country should not take part if Israel remains in the competition.

"I would really like Eurovision and Poland's participation not to be a political event. I will share my personal opinion: I believe we should not participate in Eurovision if Israel is there," Cienkowska said.