ORF reform discussions begin at Zukunftsforum in Austria

The ORF-Zukunftsforum, a two-day conference hosted by Austrian Media Minister Andreas Babler, has brought together approximately 200 experts, politicians, and industry representatives to discuss a comprehensive reform of the Austrian public broadcaster, ORF.

Key proposals emerging from working groups include replacing the single Director-General role with a multi-member board, reducing the size of the ORF Foundation Council, and increasing digital flexibility. Experts emphasized the need for an ‘online first’ and ‘online only’ approach to reach younger audiences, alongside strengthening the mandate regarding media literacy and artificial intelligence.

Industry stakeholders, including the film and music sectors, have called for the protection of domestic productions and fair terms of trade. Meanwhile, political tensions persist regarding financing; while the ÖVP has suggested moving toward federal budget funding, Minister Babler noted that changing the current household levy is not part of the government program.

Separately, the FPÖ has filed a lawsuit against the ORF seeking an injunction following a report regarding connections between the party and the Identitarian movement, alleging reputational damage.