The Netherlands will return to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2027 with a new public broadcaster, according to the national public broadcaster NPO. This comes after Avrotros, the previous Dutch broadcaster, decided to withdraw from the contest in August 2026. Avrotros cited concerns that the event had "no longer been considered neutral" due to the political and social divisions in the Netherlands over the war in Gaza. NPO has confirmed that it will take over the responsibility of sending a Dutch representative to Eurovision starting in 2027. The selection of the artist will be overseen by an independent team of experts, ensuring a transparent and fair process. This decision reflects NPO's commitment to maintaining the contest's role as a unifying cultural event. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU), which organizes Eurovision, has also introduced new rules and measures aimed at addressing concerns about the contest's neutrality and inclusivity. These changes are part of a broader effort to ensure that Eurovision remains a platform for artistic expression that brings people together, rather than deepening existing divisions. NPO acknowledged that the Eurovision Song Contest has evoked "mixed feelings" in the Netherlands, particularly in light of recent global events. Nevertheless, the broadcaster has emphasized its intention to work closely with the EBU to reassert the festival's role as a unifying celebration of music and culture across Europe.