The broadcasting commission of the federal states has published its leaked reform proposals for the public broadcasters. now made public.
Among other things, a reduction in radio programmes and a reduction and reorganisation of digital special-interest channels are planned. There will also be a limitation of online playout channels for apps and media libraries.
In the reduction and reorganisation of the digital special-interest programmes, the focus is on Arte and 3sat in the area of culture & international, with 3sat to be merged into Arte. In summary, the Broadcasting Commission apparently also sees potential for KiKA, funk, ZDFneo and One in the area of "young people". In the areas of education, documentary and information, savings potential is seen at ARD Alpha, ZDFinfo, Tagesschau24 and Phoenix, without being specific.
The information on the reduction in radio programmes is more precise. Each station is to have only four plus one programme per six million inhabitants. A special regulation is at least planned in order to reflect multi-state broadcasters.
The Broadcasting Commission is calling for a comprehensive obligation for ARD, ZDF & Deutschlandradio to work together. A joint technical platform system is to be created by ARD, ZDF & DLR. Operations are to be ensured by a joint subsidiary. The organisation of ARD should also be strengthened to ensure sustainable decision-making processes and a stronger "culture of cooperation" within ARD as a "federal media association" through the introduction of a strict leader principle ("one for all"), particularly in the administrative and technical areas.
At the end of October, the Conference of Minister Presidents will now discuss the Broadcasting Commission's proposal. All state parliaments would then have to ratify the reform treaty in a lengthy process. Whether the 58 cent increase in contributions recommended by the KEF will be implemented at the turn of the year is still open, however, as several federal states are resisting it.
