International news options shrink on Greek TV as ERT reshuffles lineup
Greece’s state-owned broadcaster, ERT, has removed BBC News from its national terrestrial airwaves, replacing the long-standing English-language service with its own international channel, ERT Cosmos.
The shift leaves the country’s sizable expatriate community and millions of annual tourists with fewer options on standard television sets. While ERT World offers some English-subtitled content, its programming is predominantly in Greek.
According to ERT’s 2024-2026 strategic plan, the frequency reclamation is part of a “digital sovereignty” initiative.
The move also follows the recent discontinuation of Deutsche Welle’s Greek service. The German broadcaster announced the closure of its 62-year-old Greek department due to budget restrictions.
BBC News and DW are now accessible via the free ERTFlix streaming app or through satellite or paid cable providers, while TV5 Monde and Cyprus’ RIK Sat remain the final foreign-based services on the terrestrial multiplex.
Kathimerini
