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Culture Minister Liljestrand Declines to Commit Additional Funding for SVT Amid Budget Cuts

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Key Points
  • SVT announced a 355 million kronor savings package including 141 job cuts and program cancellations
  • Culture Minister Parisa Liljestrand stated it's 'too early' to commit to additional funding for the public broadcaster
  • The budget pressure stems partly from 192 million kronor in increased transmission costs after TV4 left the market

Swedish Culture Minister Parisa Liljestrand has reportedly stated it is too early to answer questions about providing additional funding to public service broadcaster SVT, despite the organization's announcement of significant budget cuts. According to reports, SVT recently presented a savings package totaling 355 million kronor, which includes layoffs affecting 141 positions and the cancellation of several popular programs. The budget pressure is reportedly due in part to increased transmission costs of 192 million kronor for 2026, following TV4's exit from the market earlier this year.

Liljestrand, a member of the Moderate Party, told Aftonbladet that 'it's too early to answer' when asked about potential additional funding for SVT. The minister later responded to criticism from Social Democratic leader Magdalena Andersson, who had called for Prime Minister intervention, by stating that the matter is now on her desk and that the government acts collectively on such issues.

it's too early to answer

Parisa Liljestrand, Culture Minister

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