Preliminary results show Slovenians back licence fee
October 13, 2026



The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has welcomed the preliminary results of Slovenia’s consultative referendum on October 11th, which show a majority of voters backing the licence fee that funds RTV Slovenija. The final results will be confirmed once all postal votes, including those from abroad, are counted.

Noel Curran, EBU Director General, commented: “The preliminary results indicate that Slovenian voters have chosen to keep the licence fee, and with it a broadcaster funded by the public. The result is close, so now is the time for politicians, RTV Slovenija and the public to talk openly about what they want their public broadcaster to do. RTV Slovenija is ready to modernize, but it needs the funding to do so.


“We need to protect strong, independent public service media, especially as misinformation and disinformation grow. That means funding that is adequate, sustainable, and predictable. The European Media Freedom Act (EMFA) makes this a legal requirement for all EU member states. The licence fee creates a direct link between public service media and the people they serve. It strengthens their independence and their accountability to the public. This result is an encouraging signal for RTV Slovenija and for independent public service media. We now urge the Slovenian authorities to make sure any reform of RTV Slovenija’s funding or governance fully respects the EMFA. The EBU will continue to support RTV Slovenija and advocate for strong safeguards for its editorial independence and long-term financial sustainability,” added Curran.