Denmark’s DR Confirms It Won’t Vote to Expel Israelfrom Eurovision 2026
As the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) prepares for its crucial November vote on Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2026, Denmark’s DR has now confirmed it will not support any motion to exclude the country from the contest.
In a statement shared with Danish media, Gustav Lützhøft, Head of Culture, Debate and Music at DR, said the broadcaster remains committed to Eurovision’s founding values and its role as a “European cultural event that unites nations through music.”
“We will not vote for any EBU member to be excluded from the competition, as long as they comply with the rules and statutes,” Lützhøft said.
A European Cultural Event Since 1956”
DR emphasised that it continues to view Eurovision as a space for unity, not division, and that political interference must be avoided.
“DR supports Eurovision as a cultural event that has brought nations together through music since 1956,” Lützhøft added.
Denmark’s participation in next year’s contest — set to be held in Vienna, Austria — remains conditional on three factors:
– A strong international sense of unity.
– Guaranteed safety for participants and audiences.
– An apolitical environment surrounding the competition.
These criteria mirror statements made recently by broadcasters in Sweden, Finland and Norway, all of which have called for Eurovision to remain a celebration of culture rather than conflict.
Europe Divided Ahead of the Vote
The EBU’s upcoming extraordinary general meeting in November will determine whether Israel can compete in Eurovision 2026, amid widespread criticism over its military actions in Gaza.
While several public broadcasters — including those in Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Iceland — have announced plans to boycott the contest if Israel takes part, DR has taken a more measured approach, advocating dialogue and neutrality.
As things stand, Denmark’s position could play a key role in shaping how many smaller broadcasters choose to vote.
Source: DR
