The Netherlands will make its return to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, after withdrawing from the 2026 edition due to objections over Israel's participation. The Dutch public broadcasting organization NPO will assume responsibility for the country's Eurovision entry following broadcaster AVROTROS's decision not to return.

Background on Withdrawal and Return

AVROTROS opted out of the 2026 contest, citing concerns about Israel's involvement, including issues related to the humanitarian situation in Gaza, restrictions on press freedom, and political interference in the previous Eurovision edition. The broadcaster also decided against returning in 2027, stating that ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East unduly influenced the contest and that recent changes by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) were insufficient to restore confidence in the contest's independence and neutrality.

Following this decision, AVROTROS handed back Eurovision responsibilities to NPO, the overarching body coordinating public broadcasters in the Netherlands. NPO confirmed its commitment to rejoining Eurovision in 2027 and highlighted recent significant adjustments in contest rules made by the EBU as part of ongoing dialogues.

New Structure for Dutch Eurovision Participation

Unlike previous years, where one broadcaster managed both the Dutch Eurovision entry and its coverage, the 2027 participation will be a collaborative effort across the public broadcaster system, coordinated by NPO with an independent expert team tasked with selecting and supporting the Dutch act.

NOS, the public broadcaster known for news and event coverage, will provide Eurovision coverage and commentary but will not oversee the selection or management of the entry, helping maintain impartial reporting.

Jurre Bosman, NPO Director of Media, emphasized the importance of the Netherlands' participation during a time of global unrest and highlighted the broadcaster's intention to foster the contest's unifying spirit, stating: "We want to be part of Eurovision again to truly live up to ‘United by Music’ together."

Looking Ahead to Eurovision 2027

The Netherlands' representative for Eurovision 2027 will be announced at a later date. The contest will air on NPO 1 and through NPO's online platforms.

Martin Green CBE, Director of the Eurovision Song Contest, welcomed the Netherlands back, noting the contest's original founding purpose of uniting countries through music remains highly relevant: "In a world that is increasingly divided, Eurovision provides a unique space for connection and shared experience."

Historical Context

The Netherlands is one of the most successful countries in Eurovision history with five wins since its debut in 1956. It has participated 65 times and, since the introduction of semi-finals in 2004, has reached the Grand Final 11 times. However, the country has also finished last five times and was disqualified from Eurovision 2024.