Spanish broadcaster chief backs Eurovision 2027 boycott

The head of Spain's public broadcaster has said he will propose that the country remains out of the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027 over Israel's participation despite the crisis in Gaza.

José Pablo López, president of RTVE, told a parliamentary committee on Tuesday that it was "deeply painful that Israeli public broadcaster KAN would continue to take part in Eurovision given the situation in Gaza."

Spain was one of five countries, alongside Ireland, Iceland, the Netherlands and Slovenia, which did not participate in this year's contest in Vienna following controversy over Israel's participation.

López said changes made by Eurovision organisers since then showed "technical progress" but added that there was still "unfinished business on the ethical front."

"For this reason, I announce that I will propose to the RTVE board that we maintain the suspension of our participation in Eurovision," he said.

Eurovision Song Contest director Martin Green responded to López's comments, saying:

"We respect RTVE's process and will await their Board's final decision."

The proposal would need to be approved by the board before Spain's position for the 2027 contest is confirmed.

Green said Eurovision made "significant changes" over the past year after listening to concerns raised by its members - including stronger safeguards against undue external influence and promotion, tighter voting limits, the return of professional juries to the semi-finals and changes aimed at ensuring the contest can be hosted safely and securely.

"We regret that, despite these changes, a recommendation will be made that RTVE does not take part in the Contest this year," Green added.

Spain is one of Eurovision's "Big Five," alongside France, Germany, Italy and the United Kingdom, whose broadcasters are among the biggest financial contributors to the competition and whose entries automatically qualify for the Grand Final.

Last week, RTÉ confirmed they will not participate in or broadcast Eurovision, "given the appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza." They also noted the "continued denial of independent access to international journalists to the territory."

Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS has also pulled out of the 2027 contest, saying the event can "no longer be considered neutral."

The contest will take place in Burgas, Bulgaria in May, with the Grand Final on May 15.