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Journalism Funding in Austria: A Study by Medienhaus Wien with Advisory Input from CMC (April 2026)

Independent journalism is essential for democracy, yet its future in Austria is at risk due to globalisation, digitalisation, and competition from international platforms. The question is no longer whether to fund journalism, but how to reform the current system to ensure its sustainability.

 21.05.2026
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This study by Medienhaus Wien, with advisory contributions from Matthias Karmasin (Director of CMC) and Krisztina Rozgonyi, explores options for transforming Austria’s fragmented media funding into a convergent system that supports high-quality, independent journalism. The proposed model aims to strengthen journalistic employment, preserve editorial infrastructure, and promote digital innovation, start-ups, and journalism in areas of societal need.

Funding decisions would be made by an independent commission, free from political influence, and linked to KommAustria-RTR GmbH. The study also emphasises transparency, quality assurance, and compliance with ethical standards as prerequisites for funding.

Study Team:

  • Study Director: Andy Kaltenbrunner

  • Research Team: Renée Lugschitz, Sonja Luef, Walter Strobl, Anja Noster

  • Advisory Board: Christopher Buschow, Nikolaus Forgó, Matthias Karmasin (Director of CMC), Daniela Kraus, Krisztina Rozgonyi

For more details, refer to the full study by Medienhaus Wien.