BDS Greece Urges Eurovision 2026 Artists: “Either Withdraw or Refuse to Represent Greece”
The letter is bold, emotional, and unapologetic. Will artists listen — or toe the line?
Let’s be clear: this isn’t your average open letter. Published by BDS Greece, this is a fiery appeal sent directly to the hearts (and inboxes) of every single artist competing in Greece’s national selection for Eurovision 2026.
It doesn’t mince words. It doesn’t do diplomacy. And it certainly doesn’t care for your apolitical vibes. Here’s what it says — word for word — and why it’s stirring a debate across Europe.
The full letter, translated from Greek
“In Portugal, 13 of the 16 national finalists have signed a joint statement declaring that they will boycott Eurovision 2026 if they win Festival da Canção.”
“Dear participant of Eurovision 2026,”
“The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) continues to allow Israel to participate in Eurovision 2026 despite its ongoing acts of genocide and war crimes in Palestine.”
“ERT, the Greek broadcaster, is taking part in the contest. But Israel’s participation directly contradicts international law, the UN’s recognition of genocide in Gaza, and the rulings of the International Criminal Court, which has called for the arrest of Israel’s Prime Minister as a war criminal.”
“Eurovision is not ‘above politics’. Belarus was banned in 2021. Russia was banned in 2022. These were political decisions. As long as Israel is allowed to participate, Eurovision is not a celebration of peace and unity — it becomes a tool for whitewashing genocide, ethnic cleansing, and apartheid in Palestine.”
“Spain, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia, and Iceland have already withdrawn from Eurovision 2026.”
“In Greece, multiple unions — including P.O.TH.A, the Panhellenic Musicians’ Union, and the National Federation of Broadcasting Workers — have urged ERT to demand Israel’s exclusion.”
“Hundreds of artists and cultural figures across Europe are calling for the same. The Queer Coalition for Palestine, representing LGBTQIA+ organisations worldwide, warns against Eurovision being used for ‘pinkwashing’.”
“Even popular acts like Ylvis (Norway) have withdrawn. In Italy, Levante has publicly said she would not represent her country in Eurovision if she wins Sanremo.”
“In Portugal, 13 of the 16 artists in Festival da Canção have already signed a boycott pledge.”
“We are calling on you to send a message of humanity, peace, and solidarity: either withdraw from the national selection, or, if you win, refuse to represent Greece in Eurovision 2026.”
“ERT is complicit in whitewashing genocide. Don’t follow them. Music unites people and promotes peace — it should never whitewash war crimes.”
Sincerely,
BDS Greece, March to Gaza Greece, The Cultural Network for Palestine, Palestinian Community in Greece.
A letter that’s impossible to ignore
The tone is urgent, the accusations are serious, and the demand is simple: don’t legitimise Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2026.
This is part of a broader movement that’s shaking the foundations of this year’s contest. With entire countries pulling out and artists withdrawing before even stepping on stage, the political pressure is louder than the backing track.
BDS Greece doesn’t just want change — it demands civil disobedience. Their letter reframes participation itself as a political choice, not just a career move.
And for the artists still in the running to represent Greece in Vienna, that message now echoes louder than ever.
Whether you agree or disagree with the method, this is a turning point. One where Eurovision artists are being asked not just to sing — but to stand.
And the question for every act in the Greek national selection is now clear:
Will you represent Greece, or will you represent something else entirely?
Source: Lifo
