The BBC unveiled its annual plan for 2025/26 on Monday, mapping out an ambitious transformation agenda while acknowledging significant financial hurdles as the pubcaster gears up for charter renewal discussions.

With its budget down £1 billion ($1.3 billion) annually in real terms compared to 15 years ago, the BBC is doubling down on digital innovation while continuing its austerity measures. The corporation has already slashed 2,000 roles over the past five years and recently completed a voluntary redundancy program.

“Despite strong growth from BBC Commercial, we face an unprecedented content funding challenge as global co-productions reduce across the sector,” the BBC said.

BBC chair Samir Shah emphasized the organization’s critical mission: “The BBC’s role has never been more important, both here in the U.K. and around the world, to deliver trusted, impartial news in a world of disinformation; develop and promote the most compelling homegrown content; and be the place where people...