Mission (im)possible. The case of Lithuanian Public Service Broadcasting
Mission (im)possible. The case of Lithuanian Public Service Broadcasting

Summary/Abstract: The Lithuanian Radio and Television (the LRT1) has been performing the functions of the public service broadcaster for two decades. Its mission is defi ned by the law; the former state subordination was replaced by the public administration (the LRT Council). Th e LRT is facing problems that are characteristic of the participants of the European audiovisual sector of the competitive era as well as specific problems of the post-communist states’ development. Th ere were no traditions of public service in Lithuania, the reorganization of the audiovisual sector coincided with dramatic changes in public, political and economic life of Lithuania. Although formally the LRT meets the requirements set for the European public service broadcasting, from time to time, the question of independence of public service arises. Th e possibility of political power to interfere in the matters of LRT is revealed in the article through the particular case – through the analysis of the so-called Diarchy Case when due to the infl uence on the LRT the interests of the former and new political majorities clashed. Th e case reveals that it is possible to make political impact on the public service by announcing aspirations of full depoliticization. It is possible to pursue political goals of the governing majority through fi nancial levels as well. Aft er the idea of subscription fee has remained unrealized we see how difficult it is to fi nd alternative funding sources for the public service broadcaster.

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