The Dutch public broadcasting system is facing an uncertain future following the collapse of the Schoof cabinet, which had previously decided on significant budget cuts. These cuts, totaling over 150 million euros annually starting in 2027, threaten the independence and quality of public broadcasting programs, according to industry representatives.

The NPO and the College of Broadcasters jointly appealed to The Hague to reverse the planned cuts, arguing that accessible, reliable programming is essential during times of change and tension. While supporting broader reforms aimed at improving efficiency and governance within the broadcasting system, they emphasized that the proposed cuts are too drastic.

Several public broadcasting programs have already been affected by preliminary cuts this year, serving as a preview of what could happen if the full cuts are implemented in 2027. This includes the cancellation or reduction of popular shows across various broadcasters.

AvroTros has discontinued “Het mooiste meisje van de klas” after nearly two decades on television. KRO-NCRV is reducing the number of episodes for the consumer program “Keuringsdienst van waarde.” VPRO is ending the satirical program “Plakshot” after seven seasons.

BNNVara will reduce broadcasting time for programs like “First Dates” and “Van Roosmalen & Groenteman” on television, and discontinue radio programs like “Van Inkel’s Choice” and “Soul Night with Shay”. EO is cutting back on “Blauw Bloed,” moving it online with only a short summary on TV, and canceling “Enkeltje Verweggistan” and “Hel of hotel.”

NTR is ending the history program “Andere tijden” on TV, despite previous public outcry and a petition to save it, and discontinuing “Top 2000: Untold Stories” and “Brainstorm”. Omroep Max will no longer broadcast “Max pub quiz,” “Tv monument,” or “De rijdende rechter,” which was recently shown for the last time after thirty years.