French Public Broadcasters Strike as Parliament Reviews Controversial Reform

Unions at France Télévisions and Radio France protest the proposed creation of France Médias, citing risks to independence and funding, as the reform faces legislative examination.

A two-day strike is underway at France Télévisions and Radio France, with unions opposing the government's plan to consolidate public broadcasters under a holding company, France Médias.
The proposed reform, supported by Culture Minister Rachida Dati, aims to restructure public broadcasting to strengthen its competitiveness but has faced widespread resistance.
Unions argue the reform will lead to budget cuts, restructuring, and a loss of editorial independence, with France Télévisions and Radio France already reporting significant financial deficits.
The reform is being reviewed by the National Assembly's cultural affairs committee on April 1, 2025, with a full debate scheduled for April 10, though delays are possible due to other legislative priorities.
The government has suggested excluding France Médias Monde, the international branch of public broadcasting, from the holding structure, a shift from initial plans for a full merger.