RTÉ has confirmed it will not participate in or broadcast the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest, marking the second consecutive year Ireland has boycotted the event. The decision solidifies a “principled blackout” by the national broadcaster that began with its withdrawal from the 2026 contest in Vienna.
In an official statement, RTÉ explained that its continued participation in the world’s largest music competition “cannot be justified given the appalling and ongoing loss of lives in Gaza.” Beyond the humanitarian crisis, the broadcaster also cited the “continued denial of independent access to international journalists” to the region as a primary factor in its decision to step away.
The 2027 contest is scheduled to take place in Burgas, Bulgaria, after the country secured its first victory in 2026 with the singer Dara and her entry, “Bangaranga.” While Ireland maintains its distance, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is facing a shifting roster of participants. RTÉ is not alone in its stance; the Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS confirmed its own 2027 boycott in August 2026, describing the current environment surrounding the event as a “platform for division.”
The boycott by RTÉ represents a total broadcast blackout, meaning the contest will not be aired on Irish television, and Ireland will not field a contestant. EBU Eurovision Director Martin Green stated that while the organization regrets the move, it respects RTÉ’s decision to withdraw.
Despite the departure of high-profile Western European broadcasters, the 2027 event will see a notable expansion. Canada is scheduled to make its Eurovision debut through CBC/Radio-Canada, marking a significant step for the contest as it looks to solidify its global footprint outside of its traditional European borders.
Ireland’s absence follows a period of heightened tension within the competition. RTÉ’s early announcement sets a firm boundary for the Irish delegation for the upcoming season.
