SRG SSR is against the reduction in the media levy proposed by the Federal Council

On November 8th, the Federal Council presented its countermeasures to the “200 francs are enough” initiative, the so-called “halving initiative”. It has submitted a proposal to a consultation process that lasts until February 1, 2024. The SRG submitted its statement to the responsible department today.

“At a time when the media is struggling with growing financial problems and jobs are being cut, it is wrong to massively weaken the SRG” – Jean-Michel Cina, SRG board president 

SRG is against the proposed measures

The SRG can best respond to the radical halving initiative with a strong offer that creates personal and social added value. At the same time, it is important to continue implementing the company’s transformation. The reduction in the media levy proposed by the Federal Council contradicts this. It overshoots the target and would have massive consequences: Due to the announced cancellation of the cost-of-living adjustment, the decline in advertising revenue and the reduction in the media levy proposed by the Federal Council, the SRG would be missing up to 240 million francs annually from 2027. This accumulation of financial challenges would have a profound impact on programming and staff. Overall, it would be expected that around 900 jobs would have to be cut gradually.

SRG Board President Jean-Michel Cina: “A democracy thrives on citizens being well informed. At a time when the media is struggling with growing financing problems and jobs are being cut, it is wrong to massively weaken the SRG.

SRG General Director Gilles Marchand: “The entire Swiss media market benefits from a healthy and solidly financed public media company. SRG is doing everything it can to compensate for the sharp decline in its commercial revenue. Further weakening would certainly have a negative impact on the quality of the program’s services, in all regions. To the detriment of the audience.”