EBU Re-Elects President Delphine Ernotte Cunci and Vice-President Cilla Benkö for New Two-Year Mandate

The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has solidified its leadership structure during its latest General Assembly, voting to re-elect Delphine Ernotte Cunci as President for a new two-year term. Ernotte Cunci, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer of French public broadcaster France Télévisions, will continue to steer the world’s leading alliance of public service media. Alongside her, Cilla Benkö, the Director General of Swedish Radio (Sveriges Radio), was also re-elected to her post as Vice-President, ensuring administrative continuity at a time of significant transition and challenge for public broadcasters across Europe.

In addition to the top leadership roles, the EBU General Assembly elected three new members to its influential Executive Board. Among the newly appointed board members is the United Kingdom’s Rhodri Talfan Davies, the Director of Nations at the BBC. The refreshed Executive Board, which comprises media executives from across the continent, is tasked with defining the EBU's strategic vision, securing sustainable funding models, and championing the collective interests of public service broadcasters who collectively reach an audience of over one billion citizens.

First elected to the presidency in 2020, Ernotte Cunci’s tenure has been defined by efforts to safeguard editorial independence, combat disinformation, and foster cross-border collaboration. Under her leadership, the EBU has navigated complex geopolitical shifts, including the suspension of Russian member organizations following the invasion of Ukraine, and the rising threats to press freedom in several member states.

"In an era marked by rapid technological change and political polarization, the role of public service media as a trusted, independent, and unifying force has never been more critical," Ernotte Cunci said in a statement following the vote. "I am honored by the trust our members have placed in me and Cilla to continue leading this vital alliance as we champion democratic values and digital innovation."

Looking ahead to the new two-year mandate, the EBU leadership faces a demanding slate of priorities. Key focus areas will include advocating for the prominence of public service content on global streaming platforms, managing the integration of artificial intelligence in broadcasting workflows, and ensuring the continued success of flagship cultural events like the Eurovision Song Contest. With the re-election of Ernotte Cunci and Benkö, the EBU signals a commitment to stable, experienced governance as it navigates the evolving digital media landscape.