Halving initiative: Alliance for Media Diversity fights for a strong SRG
The Council of States recommends rejecting the initiative to cut funding in half. The Alliance for Media Diversity is now stepping up its efforts to ensure adequate funding for the SRG. In the spring of 2026, voters will decide on the future of public service broadcasting.
The Pro Media Diversity Alliance welcomes the clear decision of the Council of States against the halving initiative. The referendum in spring 2026 will show whether the SRG can continue to offer a comprehensive program in all four national languages.
The initiative calls for a reduction in the media levy from CHF 335 to CHF 200 per household and wants to exempt companies completely from the levy. If it is accepted, SRG would have to massively reduce its offering and close numerous regional sites.
"In the mountain regions and for our linguistic minorities, SRG is more than just a broadcaster. If it is halved, there is a risk of a gap in public discourse. This applies to Graubünden just as much as it does to French-speaking Switzerland and Ticino," warns Martin Candinas, National Councillor (Die Mitte/GR).
The Pro Media Diversity Alliance, which now comprises 4,500 individuals and 25 organizations, is stepping up its commitment. Last summer, it set an example with the "Sea of Flags" campaign: 4000 flags were hung throughout Switzerland with the message "Democracy needs independent media - No to the halving initiative!".
"In times of fake news, disinformation and AI-generated content, the role of the SRG is even more important. We need reliable journalism - in all parts of the country and in all languages. This protects - and strengthens - democracy," emphasizes former member of the Council of States Olivier Français (FDP-Liberals/VD).
The Alliance welcomes the support of the "No to the halving initiative" committee and calls on all democratic forces to work together against the initiative. A strong, independent SRG is particularly important in times of crisis.
