Private broadcaster executive warns ORF against expanding services for under-30s
Translated from German, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- A media executive warns against the public broadcaster ORF expanding its services for young people.
- Corinna Drumm, managing director of VÖP, fears this could lead to a media landscape dominated by a strong ORF and global platforms.
- She suggests ORF does not need a broad offering for those under 30, advocating for a more focused public service.
Corinna Drumm, managing director of the Association of Private Broadcasters (VÖP), has cautioned against the Austrian public broadcaster ORF expanding its offerings for individuals under 30. Speaking at the ORF "Future Forum" convened by the media minister, Drumm expressed concern that such an expansion would further consolidate ORF's dominance.
Drumm argues that ORF does not require a comprehensive service for the under-30 demographic. She fears that a continued expansion of the public broadcaster's reach will inevitably lead to a media environment where only a powerful ORF and international streaming platforms remain viable. This, she contends, would leave private media outlets struggling to compete.
ORF does not need a broad full service for people under 30.
The VÖP represents private radio and television stations in Austria. Their concern centers on maintaining a diverse media landscape, where private operators can coexist with the public broadcaster. Drumm's warning highlights the ongoing tension between public service media and private commercial interests in Austria's media market.
Otherwise, only a strong ORF and platforms will remain.
Originally published by Der Standard in German. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.