nuOct 14, 2026, 17:08

Signatories of Eurovision open letter still waiting for NPO response

Signatories of an open letter questioning the NPO's decision to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest have yet to receive a formal response. The group argues that the event's entertainment value should not supersede ethical concerns, while the NPO continues to defend its involvement as a means of maintaining European connection.

Signatories of an open letter criticizing the NPO's participation in the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest are still awaiting a formal response. The letter, titled #NietMijnSongfestival, expresses the signatories' inability to prioritize an entertainment program over the ongoing loss of life in conflict zones. Despite the public outcry and the decision by the College of Broadcasters not to contribute to the NPO's selection team, the broadcaster stated it remains in talks with all involved parties. The Ombudsman for public broadcasters noted that the matter falls outside their jurisdiction as it does not concern journalistic productions.

Controversy persists regarding the NPO's decision to participate in the contest following the withdrawal of AVROTROS. Critics are demanding transparency regarding the decision-making process and are angered that the NPO is ignoring the concerns surrounding Israel's inclusion. While the NPO maintains that remaining part of the event is essential for European connection, the internal resistance continues as no individual broadcasters have agreed to support the selection of an entry for next year.

Culture Netherlands

Read original ↗

Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

NET5 program Buzz cancelled: 'Not the development we had hoped for'

Talpa is canceling the NET5 entertainment program Buzz on October 23 because it failed to achieve satisfactory viewership numbers. Although the show gained traction through short clips on social media, the program as a whole did not meet audience expectations.

Linda de Mol happy with restored bond between son and partner Jeroen Rietbergen

Linda de Mol has publicly celebrated the reconciled relationship between her son, Julian Vahle, and her partner, Jeroen Rietbergen. The couple, who reunited in 2024 after a split in 2022, were recently seen sharing an emotional moment during a musical performance.

Ajax misses Steven Berghuis, Anton Gaaei and Caio Henrique for away match against Hajduk Split

Ajax will face Hajduk Split in the Conference League on Thursday without several players due to injuries and ineligibility. The squad, which departed for Croatia without stars like Steven Berghuis and Daley Blind, is managed by Michel Sanchez.

Chatterbox Roderik connects people with each other

Roderik Schaepman has launched the Week of the Conversation, an initiative aimed at encouraging social interaction to combat loneliness and declining communication skills. By setting up designated spaces at locations like the Haarlem train station, he encourages people to overcome social hesitation through simple steps like greeting and complimenting strangers.

Adriaan van Dis and Saskia Noort nominated for NS Public Prize

Six authors, including Adriaan van Dis and Saskia Noort, have been nominated for the 2026 NS Publieksprijs. The nominees were unveiled at a temporary pop-up museum at Amsterdam Central Station, where the public can vote for their favorite book until mid-October.