
Konzertsaal Gare du Nord © Florence Osthoff
What is being sold as a cost-cutting measure is in fact undermining Switzerland's cultural and democratic foundations. Halving the SRG licence fee does not mean a «leaner offering», but rather a massive reduction in basic media services. It opens the door to all those who want to damage our democracy.
A strong and independent public service is indispensable, especially for contemporary music, experimental formats and cultural voices beyond the mainstream. The SRG makes a significant contribution to highlighting cultural diversity, initiating discourse and giving smaller scenes a public platform. We are already seeing how the pressure to save money is leading to a narrowing of what is on offer, at the expense of depth, diversity and innovation.
Art and culture are not marginal phenomena. They are places of reflection, criticism and social cohesion. Cutting funding in this area not only weakens culture, but also the democratic judgement of our society.
We at Gare du Nord stand for independent media, cultural diversity and a strong democracy. The SRG «Halbierungsinitiative» jeopardises these foundations. That is why we recommend: SRG «Halbierungsinitiative» – NO
Statement by the Cultural Policy Network:
«Half the fees, jeopardising the whole – No to the destruction of basic media services»
Voting:
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