NRK Calls for EBU Action as Pressure Mounts Over Israel’s Eurovision 2026 Participation

Norway’s public broadcaster NRK has urged the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to take “concrete action” on Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2026, as outrage over the ongoing war in Gaza continues to divide Europe’s broadcasting community.

In a detailed public statement, NRK acknowledged the “powerlessness” many of its own employees feel in light of the escalating conflict, stressing that the broadcaster “understands the demand for action” but must uphold its dual role as both impartial journalist and Eurovision participant.

“Every day, we witness horrific scenes in Gaza,” the statement reads. “It’s only natural that people expect Eurovision — as a shared cultural platform — to confront these realities.”

NRK stopped short of threatening a boycott, unlike Ireland, Spain, the Netherlands and Slovenia, all of which have vowed to withdraw if Israel remains in the competition. Instead, the Norwegian broadcaster has chosen to push for reform from within, focusing on three key areas: Israel’s eligibility, vulnerabilities in the voting system, and safety concerns at the contest in Vienna 2026.

Concern 1: Israel’s Impact on Eurovision’s Reputation

According to NRK, one of the central questions for the EBU is whether the Israeli broadcaster’s conduct risks damaging the contest’s integrity.

The broadcaster points to Eurovision’s rulebook, which states that no participant should bring the contest into disrepute or undermine public trust.

Concern 2: “Manipulable” Voting System

NRK also warned of the contest’s susceptibility to vote manipulation, citing Israel’s alleged state-funded campaigns to influence televoting in 2025 — a move critics say undermines the credibility of the result.

“It is known that Israel has actively tried to influence voting results through campaigns,” NRK said. “The EBU must change the system to make manipulation more difficult.”

This comes after revelations that Israel’s Ministry of Communications financed targeted YouTube ads during Eurovision 2025 urging fans across Europe to vote for its entry, New Day Will Rise, which went on to win the televote.

Concern 3: Safety at Eurovision 2026

NRK also expressed concern about security measures in Vienna, warning that “armed guards around delegations” could undermine Eurovision’s spirit as a festival of unity.

“This is supposed to be a celebration,” NRK said. “EBU must ensure safe and inclusive conditions for all artists and staff.”

“We Believe in a Democratic Process”

While many European broadcasters have taken a hardline stance, NRK insists on a principled and democratic approachwithin the EBU.

“We believe that a democratic process among EBU members will yield a more legitimate outcome and protect editorial independence,” the statement adds.

NRK emphasised that, as a public broadcaster, its foremost duty remains impartial news coverage, warning that unilateral political decisions could “compromise the credibility” of its journalism.

“Our role in the war is that of an observer,” NRK said. “In Eurovision, we are a participant — and those roles must remain separate.”

The Road to Vienna

The EBU is expected to make its final decision on Israel’s participation at its December general assembly. Should the union allow Israel to remain, several major broadcasters — including RTÉ (Ireland), AVROTROS (Netherlands) and RTVSLO (Slovenia) — have already vowed to pull out.

Meanwhile, NRK’s strategy seems to strike a Scandinavian balance: firm in principle, calm in execution. Whether this cautious diplomacy will satisfy public opinion remains to be seen.

Source: Aftenposten