Fewer programs, fewer channels: The public broadcasters are to be restructured according to the will of the 16 Prime Ministers. But the unity ends when it comes to money.
The prime ministers of the federal states have agreed on a reform of public broadcasting. The state leaders made a unanimous decision at their annual meeting in Leipzig, as Bremen Mayor Andreas Bovenschulte (SPD) explained. However, there was no agreement on an increase in broadcasting fees. Details will be announced at a press conference.
Fewer channels and programs on ARD and ZDF
Discussions in advance of the broadcasting reform included, among other things, a reduction in the number of radio programs and specialty channels on television. The television channels 3sat and Arte, which are responsible for culture, should be merged.
As Bovenschulte further explained, the increase in broadcasting fees for January proposed by the commission to determine the financial needs of broadcasters failed because of resistance from “a number of countries”. An increase of 58 cents to 18.94 euros per month was planned.
Broadcasting fees are constitutionally regulated
The new contribution period begins on January 1, 2025. The increase is based on a constitutionally guaranteed procedure. But an agreement between the countries on an increase specifically at the turn of the year is considered almost impossible. If the states fail to reach an agreement, the case could end up before the Federal Constitutional Court. That was already the case in 2021.
Source: Stern
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