Deutsche Welle to Close Greek Service, Reduce Staff After Funding Cut

(MENAFN) German international broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW) will close its Greek-language service, streamline some German programs, and cut roughly 160 full-time jobs after the German government reduced its financial support for 2026, according to reports.

The decision was made during a joint special session of the Broadcasting Council, Administrative Board, and DW management, where a broad cost-saving plan was approved.

Under the 2026 federal budget, Germany cut its contribution to DW by $11.8 million (€10 million), bringing total funding down to $489 million (€415 million). Combined with an additional $12.9 million (€11 million) gap caused by unadjusted collective wage increases, the broadcaster now faces a total required savings of $24.7 million (€21 million).

“Numerous positions across the organization will be eliminated, and investment funds significantly reduced. In purely numerical terms, around 160 full-time positions are affected, although the final number may vary. There will be no layoffs,” the broadcaster said in a statement.

DW’s Greek service, which has operated for more than six decades, will be discontinued. “Greece has long been a member of the European Union and is a stable democracy with a diverse media landscape, which is why DW must make cuts in this area,” it added.

“DW must remain a strong voice for freedom, especially in restricted media markets such as Russia and Iran. To do that, it needs reliable, long-term funding. Due to the cuts, the broadcaster will have to expect significant losses in reach,” DW Broadcasting Council Chair Karl Justen said.

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