Concerns regarding executive compensation within Germany’s public broadcasting system have prompted a robust defense from Florian Hager, Chairman of ARD and Director of Hessian Broadcasting. Addressing public scrutiny surrounding the salaries of broadcasting directors, Hager acknowledged the topic’s sensitivity in an interview with “Die Zeit”.
He argued that even a complete shift to voluntary work among these executives would likely offer minimal impact on the amount levied through broadcasting fees. “The sums simply don’t add up to that level of reduction” he stated.
Hager’s remarks also responded to criticism that expenditures such as pensions for former directors are negatively affecting public trust in the public broadcasters. He confirmed awareness of higher compensation levels previously awarded to his predecessors and recognized the potential for past issues to tarnish the current perception of the broadcasting system. Hager emphasized that lessons have been learned and new guidelines established for executive salaries and oversight bodies.
Regarding proposals to consolidate the number of regional public broadcasters, Hager advocated for greater collaboration within the existing ARD structure rather than dismantling it. He underscored a preference against program cuts as a primary solution to budgetary challenges.