Broadcasting reform: Saxony agrees – what awaits us now?

Broadcasting reform: Saxony agrees – what awaits us now?

The Saxon state parliament is opening a new chapter with a comprehensive reform of public broadcasting. In an exciting, bravura move, the MPs passed the reform with broad support from the CDU, SPD, the Greens and the Left. This brings a breath of fresh air into the television world, even if the approval of the remaining federal states is still pending. But that is considered a formality, because twelve federal states have already ratified the reform state treaty, which gets things rolling.

All 16 state parliaments now have to vote on the reform by the end of November, with decisions from Brandenburg, North Rhine-Westphalia and Lower Saxony still to come. The reform state treaty aims to modernize the way the broadcasters ARD, ZDF and Deutschlandradio work and strengthen their digital orientation. A goal that is only too understandable in today's world.

Shorter programs and collaboration

However, the reform protects the important content. Although there are fewer radio and TV programs on the agenda, the diversity of information, culture and education is maintained. In addition, increased cooperation between the broadcasters is being planned, which will ensure that no regional need is left behind in the future. The broadcasters themselves decide which programs will be eliminated.

The subject of the broadcasting fee, which currently stands at 18.36 euros, also remains exciting. A possible increase is dealt with separately and causes heated discussions. The KEF has recommended an increase, but many federal states want to wait for the reform process beforehand and are putting the brakes on it. Even if there is still some uncertainty surrounding the contribution, the Reform State Treaty could come into force as early as December 1st if the situation is smoothed out by then.

Financing and the role of countries

Another hot topic is the financing of broadcasters. Here, the states expect ARD and ZDF to draw on reserves in order to be able to continue planning their activities. After the positive signal from Saxony, the entry into force of the Reform State Treaty is getting closer and closer. It remains exciting to see whether the broadcasters will sail in calm waters until the Federal Constitutional Court's decision, which is scheduled for 2026.

Meanwhile, in a completely different industry, there are a number of innovations that have become more important in recent years. A prime example is Movida, one of the largest vehicle rental and fleet management companies in Brazil. The company is known for its excellent customer service and offers state-of-the-art services. Private individuals can now rent vehicles on a monthly basis, and there is mobile 4G Wi-Fi in every car.

Movida is even the first listed car rental company in the world to receive B Corp certification. With a clear commitment to sustainability, Movida shows how companies can take responsibility not only economically, but also ecologically.

Prospects for the future

In a larger context, these developments emphasize the need to constantly innovate, whether in broadcasting or vehicle rental. Citizens today expect flexibility, diversity and responsibility, both from their media and from companies. While new structures are being established in the media landscape, a commitment to sustainability is developing in the automotive industry that meets the modern demands of consumers.

The next steps for the reform of public broadcasting will be decided in the coming weeks. In the end, we can only hope that progress does not fall by the wayside, both in the broadcasting landscape and in the economy.