Eurovision confirms 2027 countries, Spain and Slovenia still unsure

Spain and Slovenia have yet to decide whether to take part in next year’s Eurovision Song Contest, having boycotted the 2026 edition over Israel’s participation.

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organises the competition, announced on Wednesday that broadcasters from 36 countries would participate in the 2027 contest, scheduled for next May in Burgas, eastern Bulgaria.

Five countries boycotted this year’s event over Israel’s war in Gaza, which followed the Hamas-led attack on Israel on 7 October 2023 and the ensuing humanitarian crisis.

Ireland, the Netherlands and Iceland have confirmed they will also boycott the 2027 contest, while Spain and Slovenia are still considering their positions. The EBU has given both broadcasters until December to confirm their decisions, citing the complexity of the issue.

Israel’s participation has become a source of growing controversy. Earlier this year, the EBU amended its rules to prevent countries involved in armed conflicts or other sensitive geopolitical situations from hosting the contest, following Israel’s near-victories in the 2025 and 2026 editions.

Canada will make its Eurovision debut in 2027, while North Macedonia will return after a four-year absence. Czechia, meanwhile, has withdrawn from next year’s competition, citing financial pressures.