Public support for the media: a six-country overview of direct and indirest subsidies

Public service broadcasters are mandated to “reach a maximum number of viewers and listeners with a range of programmes which excite and satisfy the interest of viewers and audiences” (VRT 2010). Both Flemish and French-language broadcasters must produce relevant national programming designed for intended audiences. This is an issue due to the high level of cable penetration in the country and the dominance of international programming from other European countries. Mandates are put forth in “media decrees” passed by Parliament and then specified under management contracts established between the ruling government and the public broadcaster (Donders 2010). ...