Thank you, Lothar Lockl: Grüner party leader recognizes ORF Foundation Council boss

Thank you, Lothar Lockl: Grüner party leader recognizes ORF Foundation Council boss

Werner Kogler, party leader of the Greens, and Sigi Maurer, deputy club chairwoman and media spokeswoman, thanked Lothar Lockl for his commitment to the ORF Foundation Council, while he was preparing for his retreat from the function in June. Lockl has significantly shaped the fortunes of the ORF in the past five years, including three years as chairman. The withdrawal takes place due to the "enormous time of time" of his voluntary work, and Lockl would like to concentrate on his work as a strategy and communication consultant in the future. Nevertheless, he confidently expresses that a competent personality will be chosen at the top of the new foundation council.

Kogler and Maurer emphasized Lockl's sense of responsibility and foresight. In particular, they emphasize that his commitment, especially for the independence of the ORF and necessary reforms, was of crucial importance. Lockl's chairmanship was promoted by numerous important projects, including the new financing from the ORF contribution, the new ORF player, a kids channel and the ethics code. These initiatives not only supported editorial independence, but also contributed to innovation within the company.

The ORF in change

The ORF bodies are faced with a new beginning in June, since the next four-year term of office begins on the basis of a amendment to the law. Lockl will continue to fully perform its function until the new constitution of the Board of Trustees. During the last mandate, the ORF reached over 85 percent of the population in Austria. According to the current figures, 80 percent use ORF's offers daily and 90 percent at least once a week.

Lockl's commitment falls into a time when the media landscape in Austria is under pressure. Especially political influences and possible savings, as the FPÖ demands it, could endanger media freedom. Media associations warn of the serious consequences of a financial decision of the ORF. The ORF has an annual turnover of 1 billion euros, of which around 700 million euros come from ORF contributions. Experts point out that changes in the ORF law could already influence public broadcasting.

The challenge of media freedom

The political discussion about media policy is currently shaped by the coalition negotiations between the FPÖ and the ÖVP. At the same time, Klaus Meier, professor of journalism, emphasizes the role of journalism as a "infrastructure of democracy". Despite the challenges that arise from a hard austerity course and possible political influences, ORF remains one of the most successful public service media companies in Europe.

It is expected that the next ORF boss will also be elected in the new term of the foundation. The new chairman will play a crucial role in this context, especially in the event of a tie when he has the last word. Lockl has underlined that his time in the Board of Trustees was a privilege and emphasizes the importance of an independent media voice, which is more important than ever in politically turbulent times.