In light of the austerity measures recently announced for the cultural sector, the Forum of Austrian Film Festivals (FÖFF) welcomes the ongoing negotiations on introducing an Investment Obligation for international streaming services. Combined with the additionally proposed industry levy, this presents a crucial opportunity to sustainably strengthen Austria’s film and media landscape.

While the discussed investment obligation primarily focuses on the production of new films, FÖFF emphasizes that without proper distribution and collaboration with Austrian distributors, cinemas, and festivals, no lasting impact can be achieved. Austrian films must actually reach their audiences — both on the big screen and on domestic platforms.

Representing 24 festivals across Austria — including Viennale, Diagonale, Crossing Europe, SLASH Filmfestival, and Vienna Shorts — FÖFF calls for the following measures:

• At least half of the levy should be earmarked for initiatives that enhance visibility — including film festivals, distributors, cinemas, and domestic streaming platforms.

• Establish a clear “Visibility Obligation”: Austrian content must not only be available but also prominently visible.

• Ensure transparent and cross-sector allocation of funds to strengthen the entire value chain — from production to audience.

Austria’s film festivals present hundreds of national and international productions each year, making a vital contribution to cultural diversity, film education, and the international visibility of Austrian cinema. To ensure this work remains effective in the future, structural support within the new funding instruments is essential.

Source: FÖFF (7.10.2025)

News 13.10.2025