SRG invests new 32.5 million annually in "Pacte de l'audiovisuel

The agreement defines the framework conditions for productions that SRG realizes together with independent producers. "We have arrived at a result that takes into account the profound changes in the media, in particular the further developments in streaming platforms and the on-demand use of co-produced works," said SRG Director General Gilles Marchand in a press release.

The amount that SRG is investing in audiovisual production now amounts to CHF 32.5 million compared to the CHF 27.5 million in the last version of the pact for the years 2016 to 2019. The increase of CHF 5 million is intended to benefit Swiss television films and is also a commitment by SRG to continue to invest substantially in Swiss cinema production in terms of films, series, documentaries and animations. "Despite the very difficult financial situation, SRG wants to make an even stronger commitment to Swiss film in its entirety, which is reflected in the new version of the pact. Audiovisual creation is a priority for us," explains Gilles Marchand.

Online rights

For the first time, SRG will acquire longer broadcasting rights for the online distribution of co-productions in which it holds a stake of over 50 percent. This step is important in view of SRG's streaming platform planned for this fall. "Alongside production, distribution is one of the challenges that SRG must tackle in the digital age," says Gilles Marchand. "The SRG platform that we are launching in the fall is an important step in this direction and is entirely in the interests of our audience."

Specifically, the provisions of the pact include online broadcasting rights for the first six months. After that, SRG has the option of extending the period of validity at a special rate. SRG also benefits from online rights for cinema films at a negotiated rate, provided the co-producers give their consent.