On 5 May, the EBU formally opposed a Swiss government proposal to eliminate the federal contribution of approximately CHF 19 million per year to the international services of SSR/SRG. The proposal, submitted for consultation, would shift the entire financial burden to the license fee, forcing SSR/SRG to make significant cutbacks. The move risks halving the scope of international services and reducing Switzerland’s global visibility, interpretative reach, and institutional influence abroad. 

Alexandre Fall, Head of Competition and State Aid Law, EBU, "The federal contribution to SRG's international services is not merely funding: it is essential support for an independent voice vital to Switzerland's international role and connection with its citizens abroad. Eliminating this funding risks diminishing a unique, high-quality source of information that cannot be replicated by commercial media." 

The SSR's offer for abroad, which is subject to a separate agreement with the Swiss Confederation, includes the multilingual online portal SWI swissinfo.ch (available in ten languages), the Italian website tvsvizzera.it, and collaborations with the international television channels TV5MONDE and 3sat. This offer provides economically and politically independent coverage of Switzerland, serving as a reliable international source of information. This unique service has no equivalent in the private media sector and cannot be replaced. Continued federal support is essential to maintain editorial independence and fulfill this critical mission. 

Maintaining a strong, independent voice such as SSR/SRG’s international services is more vital than ever for Switzerland and Europe. While Switzerland considers reducing its investment, other nations—like Germany—are increasing funding to strengthen their international media presence. 

Read our full submission to the right.