The Committee of The Irish Eurovision Fan Club (the official Irish branch of the Organisation Générale des Amateurs de l’Eurovision) wishes to issue this statement in response to the ongoing discussion regarding RTÉ’s potential withdrawal from the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest, should Israel participate.

As passionate and dedicated fans of the Eurovision Song Contest, we hold the competition’s core values—unity through music, diversity, and artistic expression—in the highest regard. We believe that Eurovision has a unique power to bring people together, transcending borders and differences. It is precisely because of these values that we must also address when the spirit of the contest is compromised.

We stand in solidarity with RTÉ’s position, as it reflects a deep commitment to the principles of human rights and international law. The decision to consider withdrawal is not taken lightly and is, in our view, a necessary and courageous step. It is a powerful statement that the values of the Eurovision Song Contest cannot be separated from the global context in which it takes place.

Eurovision has always been more than just a song competition; it is a cultural event that aims to build bridges. However, when a participating country is engaged in actions that are widely condemned by the international community and are in direct conflict with the contest’s message of peace and unity, we believe it is right to question their inclusion.

We understand that this is a difficult and complex issue, and we recognise that there are varied opinions among our members and the wider fan community. However, the OGAE Ireland Committee believes that silence is not an option. We support RTÉ’s move as an act of artistic and moral integrity, a move that aligns with the conscience of many Irish people. OGAE Ireland will continue to operate and support our members even if RTÉ does not participate in Eurovision this year.

Our hope is that the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) will take note of these concerns and re-evaluate the situation in a manner that upholds the very principles that make the Eurovision Song Contest so special. We remain hopeful for a future Eurovision that is truly inclusive, peaceful, and reflective of the best of humanity.

Signed,

The OGAE Ireland Committee