Eurovision 2026: Italian television requests a place for a Palestinian artist

Italian public television RAI asked the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and the Austrian broadcaster ORF to invite a Palestinian artist to perform during theEurovision Song Contest 2026outside of the competition.

In a press release, members of the RAI board of directors believe that the presence of a Palestinian artist would be a strong symbol, faithful to the values ​​of inclusion and fraternity that music is supposed to convey. The idea is to give cultural visibility, without classification issues, to a representative of Palestinian culture. At this stage, no official response has been provided by the EBU or ORF.

RAI’s communications director, Fabrizio Casinelli, confirmed this position during a press conference at Sanremo Festivalsaying the channel did not want to “look the other way.” This announcement comes as singer Levante, competing in Sanremo 2026, indicated that she would refuse to participate in Eurovision in the event of victory, due to Israel’s participation. The presence of artists from non-participating countries is not a first in the history of the competition. Eurovision 2026 will take place in Vienna on May 12, 14 and 16, with 35 countries expected.

While the Palestinian people are facing a genocide denounced by many voices around the world, as well as by several international NGOs, allowing a Palestinian artist to take the Eurovision stage would be one of the most basic gestures possible. It is not a question of politicizing music, but of refusing silence in the face of the destruction of a people. Giving a place, even symbolic, to Palestinian culture means recognizing its humanity, its right to exist and to be heard. At this level, it is not a privilege: it is the bare minimum.