Public Audiovisual Unions Denounce "False Solution" in Government Reform Proposal
Paris, France – Unions representing employees across France’s public audiovisual sector have condemned the government’s proposed reform, calling it a "false solution" that would harm the industry.
Opposing Merger and Holding Company
In a joint statement signed by 1,500 elected officials, the unions criticized the plan to create a holding company, France Médias, as a misguided attempt to "rationalize" the governance of public audiovisual media.
"We caution against the numerous risks that a merger or holding company would entail in order to ‘rationalize’ public audiovisual governance," the statement, published in the newspaper Ouest France, reads.
Preserving Editorial Independence
The unions argue that such a restructuring could weaken the editorial independence of public media, which is essential for its mission of providing unbiased and informative content. They point to the record-breaking audience numbers of France Inter and franceinfo as evidence of the strength of public broadcasting.
"Public television and radio represent 500 million euros in investments in cinema, music, fiction, documentaries, and series. These programs showcase our heritage, our culture, and our regions," the statement reads. "Do we want to see them diminish or disappear?"
Threats to Employment
The unions also express concerns about the potential impact on the jobs of the 17,000 employees in the public audiovisual sector.
"Let’s not forget the risks of pressure, political or economic, that could be exerted on the leadership of a holding company that would consolidate all public audiovisual media. Do we really want to concentrate so much power in the hands of a single person?" the statement asks.
Minister’s Defense
Culture Minister Rachida Dati has defended the reform, arguing that it will streamline operations and improve efficiency. She has pledged to complete the reform by this summer, despite earlier setbacks.
In January, Dati proposed a full-scale merger of public audiovisual companies, but that plan was abandoned after the National Assembly was dissolved.
Call for Alternatives
The unions urge the government to reconsider its approach and seek alternative solutions to address the challenges facing the public audiovisual sector.
"We must find solutions that respect the fundamental values of our public service and strengthen our media tools," the statement concludes.
