The Communications Department of RTVSLO has provided a new statement on their plans for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.
RTVSLO, Slovenia’s national broadcaster, has shared an official statement for Eurovoix, which reveals their participation plans for next year’s contest in Vienna.
The statement reads as follows:
“EUROVISION IS A PROJECT OF PEACE, EQUALITY, AND RESPECT AMONG NATIONS.
If Israel remains among the participating countries, RTV Slovenija will not take part in Eurovision 2026.
As a public service broadcaster with an important public mission, RTV Slovenija emphasizes that the fundamental principles of public broadcasting are incompatible with grave human suffering, the suppression of free media, and the misuse of cultural events for political purposes, as witnessed in recent years.
For 69 years, Eurovision has sought to bring nations together through music and to build bridges in the aftermath of wars and divisions. Its values are founded on peace, equality, and respect. In view of the devastating situation in Gaza, RTV Slovenija questions whether Israel’s participation is consistent with these values. It is essential that the same rules apply to all participating countries.
At the same time, as a public service medium, we express deep concern over the deliberate obstruction of independent reporting and the deaths of more than 200 journalists. We also stand with the families in Israel who are still waiting for the return of their loved ones, as well as with all those who strive for peace.
Should the decision regarding Israel’s participation change, RTV Slovenija will be ready to rejoin the contest.”
RTVSLO (Slovenia), RTÉ (Ireland), AVROTROS (Netherlands) and RTVE (Spain) have all stated that they would not compete if Israel takes part in the 70th Eurovision Song Contest, while RÚV (Iceland) has stated it may withdraw.
Image source: Alma Bengtsson/ EBU | Source: RTVSLO
Slovenia was one of three countries to join the Eurovision Song Contest in 1993. The country qualified through a specially organised selection round called “Kvalifikacija za Millstreet” which was hosted in Slovenia, seven countries competed for three spots in Eurovision 1993. The country has participated in 22 editions of the Eurovision Song Contest. Their best result came in 1995 when Darja Švajger finished 7th scoring a total of 84 points. She is closely followed by Nuša Derenda who finished 7th in the 2001 contest with 70 points.
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Posted by:Tamara Vecic
Tamara is originally from Slovenia but currently lives in The Netherlands. She became a Eurovoix member in February 2025. She has been actively following the Eurovision Song Contest since 2007 and gained interest for national selections in 2018. She closely follows the Balkan music scene and enjoys covering the region in her work.