Following an internal audit, the French-speaking public broadcaster RTBF has identified areas for budget cuts, aiming to reduce its budget by 12% by 2028, equal to an annual saving of €55 million.
RTBF chief Jean-Paul Philippot announced in L’Echo that the broadcaster will reduce its focus on entertainment programmes and seek more advertising.
Philippot did not specify which entertainment programmes would be cut, but mentioned potential reductions in drama, particularly French series, while maintaining investments in Belgian series.
The adjustments will primarily affect linear programming, leaving the digital ventures intact, as RTBF has invested there to “reach younger generations.” RTBF aims to “strengthen and clarify” in this area.
It was previously revealed that RTBF plans to broadcast fewer sports events. Additionally, the broadcaster will review operational costs, reduce travel, and streamline support services.
On the revenue side, RTBF intends to reintroduce advertising in morning programmes on radio channel La Première and after 20:00 on culture channel La Trois.
Regarding staffing, Philippot aims to use incentive measures to encourage voluntary retirements, without replacing those who leave. By 2028, slightly more than 160 full-time equivalents, or 9% of the workforce, will be reduced. From the staff count of 2,700 in 2022, the number has already decreased to just under 2,000.
