Eurovision News 
The Netherlands 
The Dutch public broadcaster, NPO, has announced its decision to cancel preparations for the Eurovision Song Contest, consequently withdrawing its participation from the upcoming 2027 edition. This decision follows extensive consultations and a conclusion that there is currently insufficient support among broadcasters to facilitate a Dutch entry. Despite the withdrawal, the Eurovision Song Contest will still be broadcast on public television in the Netherlands.
Following consultation with the Dutch Broadcasting Authority, the NPO has today decided to press the pause button on preparations for the Eurovision Song Contest. As a result, participation in the upcoming 2027 edition is cancelled. After discussions with broadcasters, it appears there is currently insufficient support to participate in 2027. The Eurovision Song Contest will continue to be broadcast via the NOS on public television, including Dutch commentary and previews.
NPO cites insufficient support and current sensitivities
Jet de Ranitz, Chair of the Executive Board of the NPO, expressed understanding for the disappointment among fans:
“We understand that this is a disappointment for everyone looking forward to a Dutch entry at the Eurovision Song Contest. As the NPO, we believe it is important to serve all Dutch people, including those who hold the Eurovision Song Contest dear and would like to see the Netherlands participate again. We are convinced that the Eurovision Song Contest belongs on public television, as one of the largest international cultural events centered on music, connection, and diversity.”
De Ranitz further explained the challenges faced in securing a Dutch entry:
In our coordinating role, we held discussions with the broadcasters to investigate whether there are any broadcasters willing to facilitate the participation of a Dutch artist. In those discussions, we initially felt there was sufficient support to return. Unfortunately, we were unable to find a suitable format for this. As a result, we must conclude that it is currently too early to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027. Due to the sensitivities surrounding the themes currently at play, we have decided to take a step back for the time being.
Jurre Bosman, Director of Media at the NPO, elaborated on the reasons behind the withdrawal, particularly highlighting the impact of geopolitical issues on the contest:
The Eurovision Song Contest belongs to public broadcasting. We have known for some time that Israel’s participation elicits various reactions in society and causes discussion and division. This is also the case among broadcasters and staff, and we understand that sensitivity. We only want to send an artist or artists and staff to the festival if they can count on the full support of one or more broadcasters. Only in this way can they properly convey the importance of music, culture, diversity, and connection. We have to bear that responsibility together; therefore, after consultation with the Board of Broadcasters, the NPO has decided to forgo participation in 2027.
Bosman affirmed the NPO’s commitment to ongoing dialogue with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU):
We remain in dialogue with the EBU regarding the future of the Song Contest. For we are convinced that the event can once again become a place of music and connection, where there is room to make societal themes open for discussion. We see that the EBU is willing to take those important steps. We, as the NPO, will continue to contribute to this.
NTR not designated for participation
Under current media law, the NTR has a statutory task of filling gaps in programming, which could have allowed the NPO to designate them to handle participation. However, De Ranitz confirmed that this option was not pursued:
If we conclude that the subject is so sensitive that it causes such divided reactions, I find it irresponsible to oblige a broadcaster to take on the organization of 2027.
Eurovision Song Contest to be broadcast in the Netherlands
For all Eurovision fans in the Netherlands, the good news is that the contest will continue to be shown on the public broadcaster. Just like this year’s edition, the NOS will broadcast the semi-finals and the Grand Final with Dutch commentary, ensuring viewers can follow the event despite the national withdrawal.
