WDR and German broadcasters announce major digital reforms and cuts

German public broadcasters are undergoing significant structural reforms to adapt to changing media consumption and financial uncertainty.

Westdeutscher Rundfunk (WDR) has announced a major restructuring plan aimed at shifting resources from linear programming to digital platforms. By 2030, WDR intends to reduce its program portfolio from approximately 600 to 300 offerings. In an initial phase, 76 formats will be discontinued by the end of 2027, including the long-running magazine ‘Frau TV’. The broadcaster also plans to reduce its workforce by not refilling every third position made vacant through retirement, aiming for a total reduction of 133 jobs by 2030.

Simultaneously, MDR and BR are cooperating to maintain classical music programming on the radio. As part of ARD structural reforms, MDR will cease its independent DAB+ classical music frequency in Central Germany, which will be replaced by BR Klassik. However, MDR's classical content will remain available through various digital channels, including ARD Sounds, YouTube, and the ARD Mediathek.