IMZ Statement: Preservation of 3sat

Our statement on the proposed merger of 3sat and ARTE + the future of cultural broadcasting, alongside comments from leading voices of the performing arts.

3sat is the only public channel showcasing the rich cultural diversity of the DACH region, broadcasting dance, theatre, opera, literature, music, and more across Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. It provides space for critical debates and creative diversity, acting as the only cross-border platform for cultural offerings in the region. It is crucial that we preserve a unique stage for the arts, ensuring that the creative and intellectual voices that enrich our lives continue to be heard. Now is the time to secure long-term funding for diverse cultural programming on public television, not the moment to diminish or compromise its unique offerings.

We therefore urge the German Broadcasting Commission to reconsider the proposed merger of 3sat and ARTE. At the same time, we strongly support the Europeanisation of ARTE and the establishment of ARTE Concert as the nucleus of a dedicated European music platform.

Culture, art, and education must not disappear from the media landscape and should remain freely accessible. Our society needs this diversity more than ever; culture needs political support. Let us work together to ensure that 3sat remains the voice of the DACH region!

Read further statements from Anne-Sophie Mutter, Asya Fateyava, Benedikt von Peter, Bogdan Roščić, Christof Loy, Christian Gerhaher, Daniel Hope, Daniel Serafin, Franz Patay, Hyung-ki Joo, Johan Simons, Juan-Diego Flórez, Lotte de Beer, Martin Fritz, Mira Stadler, Sonya Yoncheva.

Read the full statement at the link below.