After the chat revelations, the ORF editors call for the depoliticization of public broadcasting. A legal action at the Constitutional Court could provide an impulse.
The ORF, the most important media toy in politics, should end up in the museum in this function. That’s what experts and NEOS are asking for, that’s what the SPÖ, FPÖ and Greens think, only the ÖVP says dryly: “It’s not in the government’s program.” Giants of public services. Schrom had discussed with the then FPÖ leader Strache how he could influence the broadcaster.
There will be an editorial meeting next week. Those responsible tell the “Krone” that they are tired of having to defend themselves against political influence. “Opposition parties are protesting the politicization of the foundation board – but once they are in government, they also want to put their people in the ORF.” That must come to an end. As a result of the recent incidents, the entire group is “pulled into a vortex”.
Constitutional complaint with “good prospects”
The staff is calling for the three editor-in-chief posts to be re-advertised in the newsroom, and the board of trustees needs experts who are as apolitical as possible. A look into the past reveals continuities. Teddy Podgorski, 87, served as general manager from 1986-1990. He says about the current situation: “The ORF belongs to the Republic. Politicians should also have something to say about this. Even in the case of privatization, most experts would probably be pro-party.”
The governor of Burgenland, Hans Peter Doskozil (SPÖ), does not want to take note of this. He turned to the Constitutional Court with a constitutional complaint. A decision is likely to be made in January. State lawyer Heinz Mayer tells the “Krone”: “The complaint has been executed excellently. It has a good chance of success.” This is supported by the most recent Supreme Court rulings on ORF funding, where independence was highlighted as essential.
Source: Krone
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