A senior German parliamentarian is calling for a potential boycott of the Eurovision Song Contest should Israel be excluded from participation. Steffen Bilger, parliamentary group leader for the CDU/CSU faction in the German Bundestag, stated his position to RTL and ntv television channels, asserting that Germany’s continued involvement would be untenable if Israel were barred.
The proposition follows announcements from several European nations, including Spain, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia, indicating they would consider boycotting the competition if Israel were allowed to compete.
Bilger expressed concern over a broader trend of restrictions on cultural and sporting events linked to the ongoing conflict. He cited instances of orchestras being prevented from performing due to the Jewish background of their conductors and cycling races being cancelled in Spain, as examples of what he described as “worrying developments.
Acknowledging the immense suffering in Gaza and reaffirming the German government’s and Chancellor Merz’s clear concerns, Bilger indicated that appropriate actions and consequences will be taken regarding the situation. The statement reflects ongoing debate within Europe surrounding the participation of Israel in international events amidst the current geopolitical climate.
