RTÉ asks for ‘discussion’ over Israel’s participation in Eurovision

By Jonathan McCambridge, PA

RTÉ has asked the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) for a “discussion” on Israel’s inclusion in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Director general Kevin Bakhurst said he was mindful of RTÉ’s role as an impartial public news service, but said he was “appalled” by ongoing events in the Middle East.

The contest, which is hosted by the EBU, will begin on May 13th in Switzerland with the final on May 17th.

Israel is set to be represented at the contest by Yuval Raphael, 24, a survivor of the October 7th 2023 Hamas attack.

Last year’s Eurovision was overshadowed by the war in Gaza, with large demonstrations protesting against Israel’s participation.

Some other broadcasters have previously raised concerns around Israel’s participation this year.

In a statement, Mr Bakhurst said: “I am appalled by the ongoing events in the Middle East and by the horrific impact on civilians in Gaza, and the fate of Israeli hostages.

“Notwithstanding the fact that the criterion for participating in the Eurovision Song Contest is membership of the European Broadcasting Union, RTÉ has nonetheless asked the EBU for a discussion on Israel’s inclusion in the contest.

“In doing this, we are mindful of RTÉ’s obligations as an independent, impartial public service news and current affairs provider, and of the need to maintain RTÉ’s objectivity in covering the war in Gaza.

“We are also very mindful of the severe political pressure on Israel’s public service broadcaster, Kan, from the Israeli government.”

The development came after members of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) at RTÉ called on the broadcaster to follow the lead of some other European public service stations by formally opposing Israel’s participation.

Previously, the EBU has said it appreciated there are concerns about the “current conflict in the Middle East” and remains “in constant contact with those participating this year”.