Slovenia: Media advocates warn of risks to RTV Slovenija independence

Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) partners have issued warnings regarding potential threats to the independence of Slovenia’s public broadcaster, RTV Slovenija. The concerns stem from two primary developments: a consultative referendum scheduled for October 11 regarding the abolition of the mandatory licence fee, and a draft bill from the Ministry of Culture proposing structural changes to the broadcaster.

MFRR organizations argue that abolishing the current funding model without a legally protected alternative could jeopardize the broadcaster’s financial stability. Furthermore, they warn that a proposed overhaul by the coalition government, led by the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS), could concentrate appointment powers within the executive branch.

According to the MFRR, these legislative moves may breach Article 5 of the European Media Freedom Act (EMFA), which mandates safeguards for the editorial and functional independence of public service media, including predictable funding and protections regarding the appointment and dismissal of management. The organizations are calling on the Slovenian parliament to pause the legislative process.