The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) is closely observing developments in Greece, where the government has launched an interim TV station to replace ERT.

The abrupt closure of the station on 11 June, described by the government as a cost-saving measure, triggered widespread international condemnation from institutions in Europe and beyond, including the European Parliament, the Council of Europe, the OSCE and media associations.  

The transitory broadcaster, launched on Wednesday night (10 July),  is transmitting a limited programme of old movies and documentaries from private studios.

EBU Director General Ingrid Deltenre said the EBU is on standby to offer expertise to the Greek Government and Pantelis Kapsis, the new deputy minister in charge of public service broadcasting, in reaching short- and long-term solutions to provide independent, sustainable public service media.

“We are closely monitoring developments in Greece," Ms Deltenre said, "and we express the hope that an agreement between the government and the ERT staff will unblock the situation and allow for the setting up of an interim PSB run by journalists in line with basic public service values.”

Since 12 June the EBU has delivered ERT's TV and radio output via a live stream on the EBU website, delivering 6.85 million streams for a total cumulative viewing time of 3.6 million hours.

Last month, more than 50 Directors General of the EBU Community, including the BBC, ARD, ZDF, Rai, RTVE, RTBF and France Télévisions signed a statement condemning the closure of Greece's public service broadcaster.