Freedom of Expression and Media Diversity

Diversity of information and independent media strengthen democracy. They impart knowledge, provide information, and present different voices, perspectives, and opinions in public discourse. In doing so, they ensure the free formation of opinion and freedom of expression. They empower people to actively participate in social and political life.

An informed public is the fundamental prerequisite for the functioning of constitutional and democratic states. For years, the market position of global platforms such as Google, Meta, and Amazon in the digital advertising market has been growing. Public opinion is increasingly shaped by a smaller number of actors. At the same time, social media is fragmenting information channels.

The media landscape in Liechtenstein has changed significantly in recent years. The digitization of production, distribution, and media consumption is putting pressure on traditional media. Private media outlets are struggling with declining revenues in both the audience and advertising markets. There is no longer a public broadcaster in Liechtenstein. Instead, digital media, online platforms, and social networks are used to shape public opinion and gather information.

On January 1, 2025, the new Media Promotion Act (LGBl. 2025 No. 68) came into force in Liechtenstein. Its aim is to strengthen the foundations for media diversity and reliable information. It includes corresponding support measures, such as increasing the base subsidy for media professionals, introducing seed funding for young and micro media outlets, and promoting digital and innovative information services.

With a reorientation of the Media Commission, a higher funding rate for the continuing education of media professionals, and the planned adoption of a binding code of ethics for journalists, the foundations for high-quality, fact-based reporting have been laid.

For the first time since October 2025, the Media Commission was appointed by the government (rather than the state parliament) through a public call for applications. It is intended to play a stronger role in raising public awareness of the media’s fundamental social function and to report regularly on developments in the media landscape and journalistic quality.

By the end of the reporting year, no binding code of ethics for journalists had yet been enacted, and the impact of the Media Promotion Act and the reorganization of the Media Commission for Diversity of Opinion and Media Freedom cannot yet be assessed. The structural challenges facing the media landscape remain.

 

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