Greek Film Body Reverses Funding for Controversial November 17 Documentary
A dispute has erupted over state funding for a controversial documentary in Greece. The Hellenic Film and Audiovisual Center (EKKOMED) withdrew its cash-rebate approval for November 17: Rise and Fall, a Skai TV production featuring an interview with jailed hitman Dimitris Koufontinas. The decision has drawn sharp criticism from the media group’s founder, Ioannis Alafouzos, who accused the body of censorship.
EKKOMED initially approved funding for the documentary but later reversed its decision. The organisation claimed the assessment of key facts was incomplete and pointed to pressure from victims' advocacy groups. Chief executive Leonidas Christopoulos clarified that this was not a final rejection but a call for reassessment.
Skai’s founder, Alafouzos, condemned the move as arbitrary interference. He argued that EKKOMED had known about the Koufontinas interview since June and that the documentary adhered to international journalistic standards. Christopoulos, however, denied any censorship, emphasising the need for a swift review of the case. The specific EKKOMED official responsible for the original funding decision remains unclear. While figures like Stavroula Geronimaki (International Investments Manager) and Irene Andriopoulou (Director of Education & Heritage) hold roles within the organisation, none have been directly linked to the approval or withdrawal process.
The funding withdrawal has put the documentary’s production in doubt. EKKOMED insists the decision is procedural, while Skai maintains the film follows ethical guidelines. The outcome will depend on the reassessment, leaving the project’s future uncertain for now.
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