Iceland becomes fifth country to boycott Eurovision

BBC NewsWednesday, December 10, 2025 at 7:02:13 PM
Iceland becomes fifth country to boycott Eurovision
  • Iceland has announced its decision to boycott the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, joining Spain, Ireland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands in this action. The boycott is a response to the European Broadcasting Union's decision to allow Israel to compete in the contest, which has sparked significant controversy.
  • This development highlights Iceland's stance on geopolitical issues, particularly in relation to the ongoing conflict involving Israel and Gaza. The country's participation in the boycott reflects a growing trend among nations to use cultural platforms to express political dissent.
  • The decision to boycott Eurovision underscores a broader pattern of political activism within international cultural events, as countries increasingly leverage such platforms to address humanitarian concerns and geopolitical tensions. This trend raises questions about the role of entertainment in political discourse and the implications for future international collaborations.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System

Was this article worth reading? Share it

Recommended apps based on your readingExplore all apps
Continue Readings
Eurovision winner hands back trophy over Israel participation
NegativeWorld Affairs
Nemo, the Swiss winner of the Eurovision Song Contest, has returned their trophy in protest against Israel's participation in the 2026 event, citing a conflict with the contest's values of inclusion and dignity. This action follows a series of boycott announcements from several countries, including Spain, Ireland, Iceland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands, in response to the European Broadcasting Union's decision to allow Israel to compete without a vote on its inclusion.
In Ceuta, young migrants brave the sea to reach Europe
NegativeWorld Affairs
In Ceuta, a Spanish exclave in North Africa, thousands of young migrants continue to arrive each year, risking their lives by attempting to cross the perilous Strait of Gibraltar by sea due to heavily guarded land borders. This trend highlights the desperation of these individuals seeking a better life in Europe amidst dangerous conditions.
Swiss Eurovision winner Nemo returns trophy to protest Israel’s participation
NegativeWorld Affairs
Swiss Eurovision 2024 winner Nemo announced their decision to return their trophy in protest against Israel's participation in the upcoming contest, citing a contradiction with Eurovision's values of inclusion and dignity amid the ongoing Gaza war.
Eurovision winner Nemo to return trophy in protest at Israel taking part in 2026
NegativeWorld Affairs
Nemo, the Swiss singer and first non-binary winner of the Eurovision Song Contest, has announced their decision to return the trophy in protest against Israel's participation in the 2026 event, citing a conflict with Eurovision's ideals of inclusion and dignity for all.
‘Censorship pure and simple’: critics hit out at Trump plan to vet visitors’ social media
NegativeWorld Affairs
The Trump administration has proposed a policy requiring visa applicants from 42 countries, including the UK, Australia, and Germany, to disclose their social media, phone, and email histories for vetting before entering the US. Critics have labeled this move as a form of censorship that undermines civil liberties and could deter tourism, particularly ahead of major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Spain’s ruling socialist party accused of failing to act on sexual misconduct by senior men
NegativeWorld Affairs
Spain's ruling socialist party, the PSOE, faces accusations of inaction regarding sexual misconduct allegations against senior male members, compounding existing corruption claims and political challenges. This situation has prompted calls for accountability and a reassessment of the party's feminist commitments.
Not lovin' it: McDonald's pulls AI-generated Christmas ad after social media backlash
NegativeWorld Affairs
McDonald's has withdrawn an advertisement generated entirely by artificial intelligence after facing backlash from social media users in the Netherlands, who expressed their discontent with the ad's content. The decision reflects the company's response to consumer feedback regarding its marketing strategies.
European leaders gather over Ukraine aid and Russian frozen assets
NeutralWorld Affairs
European leaders from the 'Coalition of the Willing' are set to hold a videoconference on Thursday to discuss ongoing support for Ukraine, with President Zelensky participating. This meeting comes as European nations face challenges in compensating for reduced U.S. aid, leading to a decline in overall support for Ukraine in 2025. While France, Germany, and the UK have increased their contributions, Italy and Spain have reduced or halted their aid.

Ready to build your own newsroom?

Subscribe once and get a personalised feed, podcast, newsletter, and notifications tuned to the topics you actually care about.