Mark Betteridge
No Music For Genocide Campaign Demands Israel Ban from Eurovision 2026
No Music For Genocide (NMFG), a cultural boycott movement backed by more than 1,000 artists and labels, has published an open letter calling for a total boycott of the 70th Eurovision Song Contest unless Israel is banned. Musicians including Brian Eno, Massive Attack, Paloma Faith, and IDLES have signed the declaration in London today, April 21, 2026, urging fans, broadcasters, and performers to refuse participation. The movement highlights the perceived hypocrisy of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which banned Russia in 2022 following the invasion of Ukraine but continues to platform the Israeli broadcaster KAN amidst the ongoing situation in Gaza and Lebanon.
The campaign has already seen significant industry traction, with NMFG reporting that over a thousand cultural producers have removed their music from streaming platforms within Israel. The letter specifically calls out the EBU for maintaining “neutrality” while Israel’s violence draws international condemnation. Organisers argue that the world’s largest music event is being used to normalise a regime of apartheid and occupation, noting that Israel’s presence brings the competition into disrepute in the same manner cited during Russia’s expulsion.
“Russia was banned from Eurovision in 2022. Israel has been murdering Palestinians for decades and is now committing genocide – and for the third year running, they’re welcomed back onto the stage. That’s not neutrality. That’s a choice,” says Belfast trio Kneecap. “Silence is complicity. We stand with No Music for Genocide and every artist, fan and broadcaster who refuses to let the world’s biggest music event be used to whitewash genocide.”
NMFG organisers have drawn parallels between the current movement and the successful cultural boycotts against apartheid South Africa. Since its launch in September 2025, the initiative has grown to include global figures such as Björk, Lorde, and Fontaines D.C. The movement also acknowledges the withdrawal of broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, Iceland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands, signalling a widening rift within the Eurovision community ahead of the May contest in Vienna.
“Every year, for its entire 53-year tenure as a Eurovision participant, Israel has perpetuated its terrorising systems of apartheid, torture, land theft, and military occupation against Palestinians with complete impunity,” NMFG organisers stated. “NMFG stands with and amplifies the incredible grassroots organising efforts across Europe to boycott Eurovision until Israel is banned.”
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No Music For Genocide & Eurovision FAQ
What is No Music For Genocide?
What is No Music For Genocide?
No Music For Genocide (NMFG) is a cultural boycott initiative involving over 1,000 artists and labels who have removed their music from Israeli streaming platforms in response to the genocide in Palestine and the occupation of Palestinian territories.
Why are artists boycotting Eurovision 2026?
Why are artists boycotting Eurovision 2026?
Artists are calling for a boycott because the EBU has refused to ban Israel’s broadcaster KAN, despite banning Russia in 2022 for the invasion of Ukraine. Signatories argue this demonstrates a double standard regarding international law and human rights.
Who signed the NMFG open letter?
Who signed the NMFG open letter?
Major signatories include Brian Eno, Massive Attack, Paloma Faith, Paul Weller, Kneecap, IDLES, Mogwai, and Young Fathers, along with several former Eurovision finalists.
Which countries have withdrawn from Eurovision?
Which countries have withdrawn from Eurovision?
Broadcasters from Spain, Ireland, Iceland, Slovenia, and the Netherlands have reportedly withdrawn from the competition in protest of Israel’s participation.
