FPÖ criticism: ORF broadcast propagates multiculturalism and ignores problems!

FPÖ criticism: ORF broadcast propagates multiculturalism and ignores problems!

On March 30, 2025, ORF launched a new format entitled “Subject to us – reports without filters”. This format is heavily criticized by FPÖ media spokesman Christian Hafenecker, who describes it as a “dispensable left-wing program”. Hafenecker claims that the show is financed by “compulsory taxpayers” and promotes positive portrayals of “multiculturalism” and illegal mass immigration.

In his sharp criticism of the new ORF format, Hafenecker highlights the one-sided reporting, which, in his opinion, ignores citizens' negative experiences in connection with crime and violence. He mentions specific problems such as knife crime, gang rape and drug-related crime and speaks of a “dark side” of multi-ethnic society. Hafenecker is also calling for a “deportation offensive” for immigrants who are delinquent.

Demands for reform and change

In addition to a reform of the ORF towards a “streamlined basic radio”, Christian Hafenecker is also calling for the abolition of the household levy, which in his opinion is no longer up to date. This reflects a widespread discussion about the role of public media in the context of migration, to which Navina Sundaram's commentary also makes an important contribution.

Sundaram was the first permanent, “non-bio-German” person on German public television and contributed to the thematic diversity as a speaker, editor and journalist. She moderated programs such as “Weltspiegel”, “extra 3” and “Panorama” and often addressed racism and xenophobia in her work. Your 1973 film “MY CITY, YOUR CITY” shows the perspectives of two industrial workers, a German skilled worker and a Turkish trade unionist.

Migration and media

The discussion about media and migration is of central importance in today's society. The term “migrant-situated knowledge” describes the perspectives and experiences of migrants who are often underrepresented in the media. Such perspectives should offer a counterpoint to the dominant narratives about migrants and be integrated into the public discourse.

The challenges facing media in relation to migration are extensive. The perception of migration and its representation play a fundamental role in society. As Hafenecker shows, media formats can function both as a platform for information and as a vehicle for specific political agendas. The debate about the ORF and its programs could therefore serve as a reflection of the complex social questions about migration and identity, which are highly relevant today.