WORLD

Dutch broadcaster Avrotros pulls out of 2027 Eurovision Song Contest

BBC 1h ago 3 newsrooms in 2 countries

It says contest can no longer be considered neutral while a participating country remains involved in a large-scale military conflict.

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Why it matters: Avrotros argues the contest cannot remain neutral while a participating country is engaged in large-scale military conflict, making this a statement about whether Eurovision can operate as a political-free zone.
Most affected: Avrotros and Dutch viewers — No Dutch entry in the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest.
Eurovision organizers — Loss of a major broadcaster and potential precedent for other withdrawals on political grounds.
Likely next: Whether other broadcasters announce withdrawals or responses to Avrotros's statement, and how the European Broadcasting Union responds.

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