Washington Post announces massive layoffs in blow to storied paper

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by By News AgenciesFebruary 4, 2026 at 08:47 PM

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In February 2026, The Washington Post announced layoffs affecting approximately one-third of its newsroom staff. The cuts significantly reduce the paper's sports and international coverage, eliminating the sports section, several foreign bureaus, and book coverage. According to a spokesperson, the restructuring aims to make the paper more dynamic and strengthen its focus. However, the decision has been widely criticized by journalists and former staff, including former editor Marty Baron, who lamented the reduction in ground-level reporting. Affected areas include sports, books, editing, metro, and international desks, with bureau chiefs reporting their dismissals via social media. The Post stated the changes are designed to strengthen its footing and deliver distinctive journalism.

Key Entities & Roles

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Oxfam 30% New Delhi 35% Jeff Bezos 40% United States 40% Pranshu Verma 50% Marty Baron 60% Washington Post ×795%

Keywords

washington post 100% layoffs 100% journalism 80% newsroom 70% staff cuts 70% international coverage 60% sport section 60% foreign bureaus 50% restructuring 50% books coverage 40%