The Bavarian state government wants to reform the Broadcasting Act and thereby fulfil the mandate of the Bavarian Radio programme. One of the plans is for around 60 per cent of the programme to consist of information content in future.

The draft also provides for the removal of so-called „design objectives“ from the law, including the previously enshrined promotion of democratic values. The role of the editor-in-chief is also to be more strongly regulated by law, particularly for current affairs and political reporting.

Criticism comes from the media industry: the German Journalists' Association warns of a possible restriction of programme autonomy and sees risks for the independence of public service broadcasting. Other voices also speak of potential political interference in broadcasting freedom.

The bill is still at an early stage and will now be discussed further in the Bavarian state parliament.