Belgium's French-speaking public broadcaster RTBF on Friday announced that it will participate in the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna, a decision made amid growing backlash over Israel's inclusion in the competition.
The decision followed a meeting of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) in Geneva, where several broadcasters raised concerns and some announced a withdrawal.
The participation of Belgium had been closely watched as RTBF, which is responsible for selecting the country’s 2026 entry, weighed its position.
RTBF Director-General Jean-Paul Philippot said the broadcaster would not "look away," stressing that its participation will be accompanied by a clear stance on press freedom, civilian protection and the safety of journalists.
"Our participation is accompanied by a firm position to denounce obstacles to the freedom to inform, to demand protection for all citizens and journalists, and to guarantee their safety in the field," Philippot said, according to RTBF.
Philippot added that Eurovision is a space where "diversity, inclusion and artistic freedom meet," but insisted that joining the 2026 contest must go hand in hand with acknowledging global realities and defending independent journalism.
RTBF said its coverage of the event will also serve as a reminder of the ongoing humanitarian crises, including those affecting civilians in Gaza.
Flemish broadcaster VRT confirmed it will also broadcast the event, though within a specific editorial framework.
Earlier in the day, lawmakers from Belgium’s PTB (Workers' Party) and Ecolo urged the country’s public broadcasters, RTBF and VRT, to withdraw from next year's contest.
PTB lawmaker Nabil Boukili said the decision "proves limitless hypocrisy,” daily La Libre reported on Friday.
"Russia was excluded the day after the start of the war in Ukraine. But even after two years of genocide in Gaza, while the bombings continue, the EBU continues to treat Israel as if nothing has happened," Boukili said, adding that Belgium only has one option, which is withdrawal from the contest.
Ecolo lawmaker Benedicte Linard also called on RTBF to act, saying: "Total incomprehension at the EBU's decision to allow Israel to participate in Eurovision 2026... International law swept aside, population starved, 67,000 dead, genocide... what more is needed?"
The EBU announced Thursday that Israel will be able to take part in next year's contest, noting that members decided not to hold a vote specifically on Israel’s participation despite requests from several broadcasters.
Slovenia, Spain, the Netherlands and Ireland have so far said they will not participate, citing Israel’s involvement and the situation in Gaza, while Iceland said it will hold further discussions.
