Das Liechtensteiner Stimmvolk schafft den öffentlich-rechtlichen Rundfunk ab: Generalangriff von rechts oder Desinteresse am Radio?

On October 27, 2024, the citizens of Liechtenstein voted in favor of an initiative to repeal the Law on the Liechtenstein Broadcasting Corporation (LRFG), thereby eliminating the legal foundation for the public radio station Radio Liechtenstein, which was subsequently dissolved. This article analyzes the voting motives of eligible voters based on a weighted online post-election survey and a media usage study. A feature importance analysis reveals that economic considerations—particularly the recurring need for supplementary funding—were the most influential factors shaping voter decisions. While concerns about balanced reporting and media regulation also played a significant role, these were voiced primarily by supporters of public service broadcasting. Additionally, a notable share of the electorate expressed general disinterest in the medium of radio itself, which substantially contributed to their support for the initiative. This structural issue is likely to intensify in the future. The case of Liechtenstein highlights the crucial role of cost perception in the legitimacy of public service media—even in funding systems without direct household fees.