Media Employees in Austria Fear for Jobs and Freedom of Expression

Job satisfaction among media employees is high, but there is dissatisfaction with the structures. 53 percent criticize the communication culture. Only 25 percent are satisfied with co-determination opportunities. The leadership style is appreciated by 39 percent, which is below the Austrian average of 62 percent. Weekly overtime amounts to 3.5 hours, significantly above the average of 1.2 hours.

Three Quarters of Media Employees Concerned About Freedom of Expression in Austria

Just over a third report interventions in editorial content in the survey. One fifth of journalists feel hindered in their role as the "fourth estate." A full three quarters fear for freedom of expression in the country. "The concerns of media employees about freedom of expression show that working conditions ultimately also affect the quality of democracy. When three quarters of employees fear for freedom of expression, it is not just an industry issue - it is a warning signal for all of us," said Ludwig Dvořák, Chief Legal Officer of the Vienna Chamber of Labour, in a statement. Alois Freitag, Chairman of the GPA Vienna and Group Works Council Chairman of Mediaprint, reminded that passion does not replace fair working conditions. "Economic pressure also casts a shadow over the industry, affecting not only the numbers but also the people. Only a quarter of respondents feel sufficiently involved - that is a warning signal," said Freitag.

(APA/Red)

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