Roland Weißmann begins lawsuit against ORF over dismissal

Legal proceedings have commenced in Vienna regarding a lawsuit filed by former ORF Director-General Roland Weißmann against his former employer. Weißmann is seeking nearly four million euros, alleging that his dismissal was a “Motivkündigung” (termination based on improper motive).

The initial hearing at the Vienna Labor and Social Court focused on procedural matters, including the scheduling of future dates and the summoning of witnesses. The court noted that the proceedings will determine whether the termination was effective or if it was based on improper or immoral motives.

While the case stems from allegations involving an ORF employee, the presiding judge clarified that the current proceedings are not intended to determine whether sexual harassment occurred, noting that Austrian law allows for termination without stating specific reasons. Further hearings are scheduled for October and November, during which current ORF Director-General Ingrid Thurnher is expected to testify.