Germany’s broadcaster SWR, which organises Eurovision within ARD, has commented on the debate over Israel’s place in Eurovision 2026.
SWR statement
In a statement issued to The EuroTrip, SWR highlighted the Contest’s values:
“The ESC has been a major musical event for decades, connecting people across Europe and beyond through diversity, respect and openness, regardless of origin, religion or beliefs. It is a competition organised by EBU broadcasters, not by governments.”
The broadcaster confirmed that it backs the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) consultation process, adding:
“ARD supports the consultation process that has been initiated and the decisions to be made by the EBU. The goal is to reach a well-founded and sustainable agreement that aligns with the values of the EBU.”
What this means
Unlike broadcasters such as Ireland’s RTÉ, the Netherlands’ AVROTROS, or Spain’s RTVE which have threatened to withdraw if Israel remains in the Contest, Germany has taken a neutral stance. SWR signalled no objection to Israel’s participation, and made clear that it will follow the outcome of the EBU’s process.
The EBU’s General Assembly in December will decide on Israel’s participation.
Germany’s Eurovision History
Germany has been part of Eurovision since the beginning, debuting in 1956. Their debut entries were Walter Andreas Schwarz’s “Im Wartesaal zum großen Glück” and Freddy Quinn’s “So geht das jede Nacht”. Germany has appeared at every Eurovision except for 1996, which means they have been at more Contests than any other country. They have a long history of success in Eurovision, finishing in the top 3 an impressive 13 times. Germany has won the contest twice: Nicole won in 1982 with her song “Ein bißchen Frieden”, taking home 161 points. Their second win came in 2010, when Lena scored 246 points with her song “Satellite”.
Germany’s most recent Eurovision entry was Abor & Tynna with “Baller”. As Germany is part of the Big 5, they automatically qualified for the Grand Final. In the Final, the song received 151 points and finished in 15th place.
Should Germany take a clearer stance on Israel’s Eurovision participation, or leave it to the EBU? As always, please let us know what you think by getting involved in the comments below. Also, be sure to follow ‘That Eurovision Site’ on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Threads, tumblr, and Bluesky for more information about Eurovision 2026!
News Source: The Eurotrip
Photo Credit: Sarah Louise Bennett / EBU
Tim J