Gerhard Zeiler was director general of the ORF from 1994 to 1998. In an interview with Krone, the media manager talks about the importance of public broadcasting, austerity plans and concerns about political influence.
“The democracies of Europe need public service broadcasters. I am in favor of the dual system!” says media manager Gerhard Zeiler (now Warner Media) about the current discussion about the ORF. Zeiler himself directed the giant on Küngiglberg (1994-1998).
“Appeal for savings justified”
He thinks Minister Susanne Raab’s call to cut costs is “justified”. The ORF is already saving, contradicts Green media spokeswoman Eva Blimlinger on krone.tv. Some offers are no longer available.
First priority: Austrian content
Zeiler sees Raab’s advance as the start of negotiations. Savings can be achieved, for example, through TV rights and advertising partnerships with private broadcasters. “The ORF must in any case serve all genres and offer linear and digital.” First priority: Austrian content. But most importantly: independent news.
Media minister Raab in the video: austerity ultimatum to the ORF!
Against anticipatory obedience and influences
“We’re not the best, but we’re not the worst either.” Zeiler cites Great Britain and Scandinavia as role models. “They’re doing really well.” The Constitutional Court destroyed the financing model. Zeiler advocates a compensation system. Whether this is called household tax or whatever. “Public broadcasting only works if everyone pays for it. Only pay when you use it, that is not possible. Such a system does not exist anywhere in Europe.”
Sailor against budget financing
Zeiler opposes budget financing, as desired by the Greens. This opens up the possibility of political influence or anticipatory obedience. As little politics as possible – says Zeiler. Even if a complete disconnection is unrealistic. For example, when appointing the General Manager. But he must ensure that the parties do not push their people through in the second or third row as they see fit.
Important state studios and absurdities in the law
Recent chats (resignation of editor-in-chief Schrom) and debates about the political proximity of ORF Lower Austria “inflict enormous damage”. Zeiler would “not contradict 100 percent. The editors in Küniglberg are more independent than in some state studios.” But they fulfill essential tasks in the case of Austria. “But they must be managed efficiently and as independently as possible. That the state governor should be legally questioned on the appointment of the state director is absurd.”
In any case, the ORF is indispensable. This was especially evident at the beginning of the pandemic. With information and orientation. “Unthinkable if you hadn’t.”
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
