South Africa has decided to withdraw from the 2026 Venice Biennale due to a conflict involving Culture Minister Gayton McKenzie and artist Gabrielle Goliath. The conflict arose when McKenzie retracted an invitation for Goliath to exhibit her work 'Elegy', which addresses the situation in Gaza. This decision has sparked widespread outrage, with many viewing it as an act of censorship against artistic expression.

The controversy gained traction in January when McKenzie publicly announced his decision, prompting the selection committee that chose Goliath to accuse him of undermining the integrity of the Biennale. The situation is compounded by the political sensitivities surrounding artworks that discuss contentious global issues, particularly those involving conflict zones. Goliath's piece, which references Gaza, was seen as a poignant reflection on human suffering, but it faced rejection due to its political implications.

This withdrawal not only marks a significant cultural decision for South Africa but also highlights ongoing debates about the role of art in addressing global humanitarian crises. The decision has been reported by various international media outlets, indicating the broader implications of artistic censorship and the precarious balance between art and politics on a global stage.