The heated negotiations on the new law are in the final stages, but the “Krone” has learned in advance what the ORF is allowed to do – and what not to do in the future.
First of all: the ORF does not have to gnaw on hunger pangs in the future either. Because although the ORF contribution is cheaper – the promised 15.20 euros has already become 15.25 euros per month – in the end more will come out. Because 400,000 extra households are being asked to pay, as are 150,000 companies. According to the current state of affairs, about 710 million euros will be collected – this year it was 676 million. However, in the new ORF law, which is currently being negotiated as a last resort, the ORF should be subject to new advertising restrictions, which will reduce the additional revenue again.
An important subject in the new law is the abolition of special privileges. It is heard from negotiating circles that it is important for the government that the ORF contributes to fairness towards other media. In the future, he must therefore submit an annual transparency report containing the income of the bosses and the salary structure. It should be over with special fees; Special severance pay and pensions will be reduced.
Decreased online presence
The online presence must also be limited to allow fair competition between the media: in the future, orf.at may only offer 30 percent text and 70 percent videos. In addition, there should be no digital freedoms in the radio sector such as the online-only channels desired by the ORF. That pleases the private radio stations. Philipp König, managing director of Kronehit, had previously considered a complaint about EU competition if an imbalance were to arise here: “But if this solution comes, I am satisfied.”
On the other hand, publisher boss Gerald Grünberger is not at all satisfied: “From the point of view of the private media industry, the concept is a catastrophe” and the restrictions on orf.at can be easily circumvented. Very important: Sport+ and the ORF radio symphony orchestra must continue to exist at least until 2026 after heavy criticism.
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.
