FPÖ calls for radical ORF reform: compulsory tax must go!

FPÖ calls for radical ORF reform: compulsory tax must go!

The dispute over the financing of the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation (ORF) and the associated budget levies is taking on new dimensions. FPÖ General Secretary and media spokesman Christian Hafenecker has loudly renewed his call for a complete abolition of the so-called “compulsory tax”. “The current regulation is a mini Band-Aid on a deep problem,” he commented on the recent government agreements to reform the ORF contribution. The aim of the reform was to abolish multiple payments for companies. Nevertheless, Hafenecker is convinced that this is not enough and is calling for a comprehensive structural reform of the ORF in order to transform it towards a leaner basic radio. For Hafenecker one thing is certain: “Hardly anyone would voluntarily pay for the ORF offer,” said the media spokesman.

The discussion surrounding the new household tax, which is due to come into force on January 1, 2024, is providing additional fuel. This tax, regardless of whether a receiver is owned, is seen by the FPÖ as an additional burden for citizens. ORF's planned income of around 800 million euros could mean an 18 percent increase compared to the previous year. But the FPÖ is particularly concerned about the high salaries at ORF. It is reported that 19 percent of ORF employees earn over 100,000 euros gross annually - for comparison: in the entire employee representation in Austria it is only 4 percent. The alleged “privilege support” and “luxury pensions” for top executives are particularly criticized.

Political debates and independence

The debate about ORF funding also shows how deep the fissures run within Austria's political landscape. While the FPÖ is calling for radical reform, politicians from the ÖVP, SPÖ, Greens and NEOS point out that an independent media landscape is essential. State Secretary Claudia Plakolm emphasizes that the ORF contribution is now cheaper for the majority and that the ORF's independent role for society should not be underestimated. In contrast, the FPÖ sees the financial burden caused by the household tax as a clear injustice. “We demand an abolition of the budget levy and a reform of the ORF,” explained Dagmar Belakowitsch from the FPÖ.

In the current discussion about ORF culture, criticism of the allocation of positions is also not neglected. Hafenecker refers to the appointment of a new finance chief from the ÖVP in Wiener Neustadt and points to the problem that political views are often more important than qualifications when filling positions at ORF. These concerns reinforce calls for complete reform to also ensure the independence and objectivity of broadcasting. “The organs of the ORF, such as the Board of Trustees and the Audience Council, must act transparently and involve citizens in the broadcaster’s activities,” said Hafenecker.

The ORF within the legal framework

What many people may not know: The ORF is defined as a foundation under public law and, through legal framework conditions, has the goal of being independent on the one hand, but also of serving society as a public company on the other. This is provided for by the Federal Constitutional Law of July 10, 1974, which ensures the independence of broadcasting and guarantees objective and impartial reporting. The ORF law also regulates the company's goals and ensures that income is reinvested in programs and services. Anyone following current developments asks themselves how long such a system will be sustainable if the funding is viewed as illegitimate by such a large proportion of the population.

In summary, it can be said that the discussion about the ORF and the budget levy not only has a financial dimension, but also raises a fundamental question of media freedom and independence. The dispute between the FPÖ and the other parties will certainly remain a hot topic in the coming months.