Austrian public broadcaster ORF is facing significant criticism for its programming choices, with an analysis by the online portal “Exxpress” highlighting a heavy reliance on repetitions and archive material. Despite considerable annual funding, the broadcaster is accused of offering a weak program, especially concerning its schedule on ORF 1 and ORF 2. This scrutiny comes as the broadcaster is set to broadcast nearly 60% of its daily programming as repeats and archival content for 28 hours, a move that has drawn sharp rebukes from media watchdogs and the public alike.

ORF’s Programming Under Fire

ORF’s programming on July 23, 2025, is under intense scrutiny, with ORF 1 and ORF 2 slated to broadcast repetitions and archive material for 28 hours. This amounts to almost 60% of the daily broadcast time, a figure that has raised concerns about the quality and originality of content provided by the public service broadcaster. The analysis by “Exxpress” suggests a significant portion of the schedule is filled with older programs, leading to accusations of a lack of fresh content.

Archive Material Dominates Schedule

On ORF 2, viewers can expect a heavy dose of older programs, including titles like “kochroulette,” “Experience Austria,” and “Universe.” The schedule also features a significant number of series and films originally broadcast between 2007 and 2013. Even an “ORF premiere” of “Dr. Nice-Old Wounds” from 2023 is scheduled for a repeat on the same night, further fueling criticism of the broadcaster’s programming strategy.

ORF 1 Also features Repetitions

ORF 1 is not exempt from these criticisms, as it too is showing almost exclusively repeated content. Popular crime dramas such as “Soko Kitzbühel” (2012) and “Soko Donau” are prominently featured. The overall impression,according to “Exxpress,” is that the programming resembles “Trash-TV” rather then the output expected from a public broadcaster,raising questions about the effective use of public funds.

the substantial annual funding,reportedly around 710 million euros,coupled with additional state grants,makes the perceived lack of original programming particularly concerning. Critics argue that this funding should translate into a more diverse and engaging schedule that serves the public interest. For more insights into public broadcasting standards, you can explore the work of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) at ebu.ch.

This situation highlights a broader discussion about the role and responsibilities of public service media in the digital age. Ensuring a balance between archival content and new productions is crucial for maintaining audience engagement and fulfilling the mandate of public broadcasting. Further details on media regulation and best practices can be found on the European Commission’s Audiovisual and Media policy pages at ec.europa.eu.