Reform of ORF Committees Approved by National Council

The National Council has enacted significant reforms regarding the committees of the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation (ORF) following a ruling by the Constitutional Court (VfGH) in 2023. This ruling determined that the government had excessive influence over the appointment of members to the ORF committees, prompting the need for adjustment.

Under the new regulations, the government's representation on the ORF Foundation Board will be reduced from nine members to six. Conversely, the ORF Audience Council, which will now consist of nine members, will have increased representation appointed by the government, up from the previous six members.

Additionally, a crucial financial aspect of the reform includes the decision to freeze the ORF contribution until the end of 2029. This freeze aims to stabilize the funding mechanisms associated with the public broadcaster, reflecting a shift in policy to address concerns raised by the VfGH about the governance structure.

These changes represent a significant step in redefining the relationship between the government and public broadcasting in Austria, aiming to enhance the independence of the ORF while ensuring that the interests of the public are adequately represented.