WDR Director Tom Buhrow has staunchly defended the ARD and ZDF’s appeal to the Federal Constitutional Court, advocating for a necessary increase in the broadcasting fee by 58 cents to 18.94 euros per month. in an interview with the Berliner Tagesspiegel, Buhrow emphasized that without this adjustment, public broadcasting would not be adequately funded to meet current demands. This comes as the federal states
Q&A: WDR Director Tom Buhrow on the Necessity of Increasing Broadcasting fees
Time.news Editor (TNE): Thank you for joining us today,Tom. In your recent interview with the Berliner Tagesspiegel, you made a compelling case for the increase in the ARD and ZDF broadcasting fees. Can you explain the rationale behind this proposed adjustment?
Tom Buhrow (TB): Absolutely, it’s a crucial topic. We are advocating for an increase of 58 cents, bringing the monthly fee to 18.94 euros. This adjustment is essential to ensure public broadcasting can adequately fund its services amidst rising production costs and evolving audience expectations. We must cover not just conventional broadcasting, but also the digital shifts and innovations that are essential for reaching and engaging younger demographics.
TNE: You mentioned audience expectations. What specific demands are you seeing from the public that justify this fee increase?
TB: Public demand is shifting significantly. Audiences now expect high-quality, diverse content that’s readily accessible across multiple platforms. They want timely news, in-depth analysis, and entertaining programming that reflects contemporary society. Without the proposed fee increase, we risk failing to meet these expectations, which could diminish public trust in and engagement with our services.
TNE: Interesting points. Could you elaborate on the implications this funding adjustment would have on public broadcasting?
TB: Certainly. If the Federal constitutional Court supports this appeal, it would enable ARD and ZDF to invest in critical areas such as local journalism, investigative reporting, and digital conversion. It allows us to enhance our programming quality and expand our reach in the competitive media landscape, including adapting to the demands presented by streaming services and social media platforms.
TNE: You also mentioned the response from the federal states. What are the main concerns raised, and how do you plan to address them?
TB: The concerns mainly revolve around perceived fiscal constraints and the impact on viewers. Some argue that increasing fees may be burdensome during tough economic times. We are actively communicating the value of public broadcasting and emphasizing that this modest increase is not just about funding, but about preserving a rich media landscape that informs and unites citizens.We genuinely believe that a well-funded public broadcasting service is an investment in democracy and culture.
TNE: From an industry perspective, what advice would you give to content creators and journalists as this debate unfolds?
TB: Content creators should continue to innovate and prioritize quality. Understanding the audience—what they want, and how they consume content—is critical. Moreover, collaboration across platforms can amplify reach and impact. As public broadcasting potentially faces changes, engaging with audiences through various channels will be essential. Building trust and creating a dialog with viewers should remain at the forefront of their strategies.
TNE: As this situation develops, what are your hopes for the future of public broadcasting in Germany?
TB: I hope this increase will not only stabilize funding but also revitalize public broadcasting, enabling us to fulfill our mission effectively. The future lies in being adaptive, transparent, and responsive to both technological advancements and societal needs. I envision a public broadcasting landscape that remains a centerpiece of facts,culture,and civic engagement in our society.
TNE: thank you, Tom, for sharing your insights and the importance of this proposed fee adjustment.
TB: Thank you for the conversation! It’s vital to keep discussing these topics to ensure informed public engagement.