VSM: Rejection of the halving initiative shows the relevance of journalism  

"The Swiss population clearly rejected the SRG halving initiative today, sending a clear signal about the relevance of credible journalism," says VSM President Andrea Masüger. "The result shows the great importance of the strong dual media system. At the same time, the debate showed that the division of roles between SRG and private broadcasters must be clarified and adapted to the digital age with a view to the 2029 concession."

The halving initiative was too extreme; the private media houses would not have benefited from it. On the contrary: cutting fees would also have affected cross-sector institutions such as journalistic training, the Press Council and news agencies. The population has recognized that only a strong, diverse media system can effectively counter the increasing spread of fake news and AI-controlled manipulation.

Specifying the complementary media system

The VSM is calling for the discussion about the SRG 2029 license to be used for a future-oriented design. Specifically, the relationship between SRG and private media should be even more complementary in the light of digital developments. This also includes a debate on the public service that private (regional) media also provide on a daily basis.

Involve a third media player

VSM Director Pia Guggenbühl points out the urgent need to improve the economic framework conditions with regard to the third player alongside public and private broadcasters, the big tech companies. "The political course must be set in such a way that investments in journalism will continue to be worthwhile in the future - this refers in particular to AI providers that use content unsolicited and unpaid," says Guggenbühl. SRG has also recognized that there is a need for action here.