The BBC has long represented the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest with integrity, creativity and a commitment to public values. However, Eurovision 2026 raises a serious ethical concern. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has chosen to allow Israel to participate despite the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and widespread allegations of disproportionate use of force and violations of international humanitarian norms.

Eurovision promotes itself as a celebration of unity, peace and cultural exchange. Yet the inclusion of a nation currently engaged in actions that have drawn condemnation from international organisations, human rights groups and large sections of the global public directly undermines these values. The contest cannot claim to be apolitical while actively platforming a participant whose government is at the centre of a major and deeply distressing conflict.

The BBC, as a publicly funded broadcaster with a responsibility to uphold impartiality, human dignity and international law, should not lend its name or resources to an event that risks normalising or sanitising serious humanitarian concerns. Participation would place the UK at odds with the ethical expectations of many licence-fee payers, who do not wish to see British involvement used to legitimise or overlook ongoing suffering.

By withdrawing from Eurovision 2026, the BBC would make a principled, non-violent statement in defence of human rights and international accountability. This step would not be directed at artists or civilians, but at the systemic failure of the EBU to apply its own standards consistently. When Russia was excluded for its actions in Ukraine, a precedent was set. Applying that principle selectively undermines the credibility of both the contest and the institutions that support it.

We therefore call on the BBC to demonstrate leadership by stepping back from Eurovision 2026. Doing so would reaffirm the UK’s commitment to fairness, compassion and respect for international law — values that should define any cultural event claiming to bring Europe together.