Swiss voters reject SRG overhaul, forcing internal budget cuts and reforms

The "Schlankere SRG" initiative was rejected by Swiss voters in November 2024, with 62% opposing the proposal. The result followed a heated campaign that divided political groups and media organisations. Supporters had hoped to reshape the budget and structure of the public broadcaster, but the outcome instead triggered internal reforms.

The initiative, co-led by SVP politician Thomas Matter, aimed to cut costs and reduce what critics called a left-wing bias in SRG reporting. Matter had anticipated defeat after early voting trends, later blaming weak backing from conservative allies like the FDP and Economiesuisse. He argued that SRG could save millions by aligning staff salaries with private-sector pay and streamlining operations.

A broad coalition—including cultural workers, sports associations, left-wing parties, and trade unions—campaigning against the initiative outspent supporters by nearly double. Opponents raised around CHF 4 million compared to the initiative's CHF 2 million. The withdrawal of private publishers from the campaign further weakened the yes side, though it prompted talks between SRG and commercial media over future collaboration.

Since the vote, SRG has pushed ahead with budget cuts. By 2025, it reduced its workforce from 7,000 to about 6,200 employees, cutting over 700 positions through retirements, redundancies, and restructuring. Administrative roles were centralised across regional branches (SSR, SRF, RSI, RTR), and a single IT system was introduced to save CHF 50 million annually. External production budgets were slashed by 20%, salaries frozen, and flexible working policies expanded to improve efficiency.

The failed initiative also sparked leadership changes. Susanne Wille was appointed Director General, signalling a shift in strategy as the broadcaster adapts to public and political pressure.

The rejection of the "Schlankere SRG" initiative has led to concrete changes within the organisation. SRG's workforce and budgets are now smaller, while negotiations with private media continue. The reforms reflect both financial constraints and the broadcaster's response to ongoing scrutiny of its role in Swiss society.