With the decision to shut down FM by the end of 2024, the SRG adhered to the agreement made with the radio industry and the federal government over ten years ago. The SRG took the lead in solidarity to pave the way for private radios that depend on advertising revenue. However, with the decision to extend FM broadcasting by Parliament, the political framework conditions have now changed. Politics and parts of the population expect a continuation of FM broadcasting. The SRG understands this decision as a mandate and will take the necessary steps for a return to FM.
A complete renunciation of FM broadcasting by SRG stations would only have made sense if the entire industry had switched off FM by the end of 2026 as agreed. Since some private radios are not yet ready for this step, the SRG cannot afford to continue foregoing this broadcasting technology and thereby losing many listeners. At the same time, digitalization in radio broadcasting is also unstoppable. Already today, nine out of ten minutes of radio are listened to digitally. Therefore, the SRG will continue to be present primarily on digital channels and DAB+, not least for the large part of the audience that has already made the switch.
Before concrete steps and binding timetables can be communicated, the new framework conditions must be announced by the Federal Council and the Bakom. They form the basis for SRG's planning regarding a return to FM. This return will take place at the legally, technically, and economically best possible time.
Press Contact:
SRG SSR Media Office
Nik Leuenberger
medienstelle.srg@srgssr.ch / Tel. 058 136 21 21