Czech Radio rejects the rushed debate on a fundamental change to the funding of public service media

Such a fundamental change to the functioning of public service media, which could threaten their independence, stability and the scope of the services provided in the long term, deserves an open, expert and thorough parliamentary debate, not a rushed legislative process.

“I regard what we are witnessing today in the Chamber of Deputies as an extremely dangerous move against public service media. The governing coalition is attempting, under an accelerated procedure, to push through a change that could fundamentally undermine their independence, stability and very ability to fulfil their public service remit. The abolition of radio and television licence fees and their transfer to the state budget is not merely a change in the method of funding. It means replacing a functional and predictable system with a model that lacks safeguards against sudden interventions by the governing majority in their funding. Such a system creates scope for annual political pressure and prevents responsible long-term planning, thereby jeopardising the stability of the public service. Moreover, it raises serious doubts as to its compliance with the European Media Freedom Act, which explicitly requires adequate, sustainable and predictable funding for public service media and the protection of their editorial independence. Instead of a responsible, expert debate, we are witnessing the hasty push for a change whose consequences may be irreversible. Czech Radio is not an institution of the government or the parliamentary majority. It is an institution serving the public in the fullest sense of the term. It is precisely towards the public that we have a duty to defend its independence and future. This is also why I call on all Members of Parliament not to underestimate the gravity of the decision before them, and to create space for a genuine expert debate,” says René Zavoral, Director General of Czech Radio.

The current system of radio and television licence fees creates a direct link between Czech Radio and its listeners and ensures stable and predictable funding. Furthermore, the proposed change envisages a reduction in funding without correspondingly adjusting the scope of Czech Radio’s statutory obligations. “We have repeatedly explained that this is about safeguarding the public service we provide to all citizens without distinction. If Czech Radio is financially weakened and, at the same time, becomes more dependent on the decisions of political representatives, it is the listeners who will bear the brunt of it. Regional broadcasting, news coverage, cultural and educational programmes, and programmes for children, young people or the elderly may be at risk, as well as other services that commercial media cannot replace. The independence of public service media is not, however, a value that can be separated from the way in which they are funded,” emphasises René Zavoral.

At the same time, Czech Radio recognises the serious concerns of its staff regarding future developments. The management of Czech Radio therefore respects the right of staff to express their views on an issue that directly affects their work, their working conditions and the future of the entire institution.