150+ Artists Sign Letter Calling For Malta To Withdraw From Eurovision

More than 150 artists and cultural practitioners from across Malta’s arts sector have written to the Culture Minister and the PBS Chief Executive, urging the Government to withdraw from Eurovision 2026 if Israel is allowed to participate.

The letter was sent ahead of Saturday’s protest, ‘Malta: No Music for Genocide’, which will begin at 3pm outside Parliament and proceed to the Culture Ministry in Valletta.

The signatories, including musicians, actors, directors, filmmakers and photographers, state that the time has come to act with courage and conscience.

They argue that cultural events are never politically neutral, noting that Eurovision barred Russia following its invasion of Ukraine.

They contend that allowing Israel to compete, while the United Nations has recognised a case of genocide in Gaza and amid the continued occupation of Palestinian land and parts of neighbouring territories, creates a double standard.

While acknowledging Eurovision’s importance for Maltese artists, the letter maintains that participation under these circumstances risks normalising alleged violations of international law.

Joining countries that have called for withdrawal, they argue, would affirm that culture should uphold accountability. The campaign has been endorsed by civil society groups, unions and former President Marie Louise Coleiro Preca.

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