Panel

Has the “Sportschau” become superfluous? Is “Markus Lanz” too expensive? And do public television stations still have to finance feature films?

Specific questions like these, if thought to conclusion, follow the recommendations for reform of public broadcasting that the so-called Future Council presented in mid-January. The demands were clear, yet the results are not binding. But they do have public impact: save, cut, be more efficient; set new priorities and control more.

Since then, discussions have spread beyond the offices of broadcasters. Opinions are divided. Some are happy about political protection and warn: If the demands are not implemented, “loss of acceptance” will be a risk.

But there is also criticism: How can less create more? How can less money lead to preservation and empowerment? Are people making the same mistakes with television as they did with public transport 20 years ago? And where is the cultural mission and diversity?

We want to continue this new debate on the future of public television and move it away from money: Public television was once an instrument of education and strengthening democracy. What is it today? What can and must it become in the future?

Mit: Liane Jessen, Sabine Rollberg, Carlos Gerstenhauer, Susanne Binninger, Rolf Silber

Moderation: Rüdiger Suchsland