WDR Employees to Receive Around Five Percent Raise in Salary Agreement

Employees at Westdeutscher Rundfunk (WDR) are set to receive a significant salary increase following a collective bargaining agreement reached between the broadcaster and trade unions. The agreement provides for a total raise of up to 5.73 percent for permanent staff and trainees, to be implemented in three stages. A guaranteed increase of 4.73 percent is secured, with an additional 1.0 percent contingent on unresolved issues, such as an increase in the broadcasting contribution. The raises will be backdated, with 1.23 percent effective February 1, 2026, followed by 2.0 percent on February 1, 2027, and a final 1.5 percent on February 1, 2028. Freelance employees will also see their fees increase by 5.73 percent in three stages, along with a one-time payment of 600 euros for those classified as 'employee-like' under tariff law. The collective agreement has a duration of 35 months. WDR confirmed the agreement, noting it pushed its financial limits to ensure fair compensation. The broadcaster's administrative director, Stefanie Drinhausen, stated the goal was to provide fair and appropriate salaries and fees under the current circumstances. The agreement also extends the guarantee of employment for trainees by one year, now covering all who complete their training by the end of 2029.

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The WDR can confirm the collective agreement with ver.di, DJV and unisono - subject to the as yet outstanding approval of the WDR Administrative Board and the responsible bodies within the trade unions.