Absence of N-VA and Opposition in Flemish Parliament Hearing Blocks VRT Leadership Summoning

N-VA and opposition party Vlaams Belang were absent for an extra session of the Media Committee on Friday, resulting in no quorum and no vote being taken on the request for a hearing. This has led to the VRT leadership not being summoned for a hearing in the Flemish Parliament. The incident is just one of many in recent weeks and months, including the cancellation of a documentary series about Bart De Pauw.

Opposition parties Groen and Vooruit have been pushing for the VRT leadership, especially CEO Frederik Delaplace, to provide explanations in the Flemish Parliament. However, the ruling party N-VA has been blocking these attempts. The VRT top will not be summoned as there was no quorum to vote on their appearance.

Vlaams Belang stated that they want to settle the issue with the minister, not the CEO, and do not want a closed-door hearing. Groen and Vooruit expressed disappointment with the lack of accountability from N-VA. The situation has sparked debate about the role of parliament in overseeing the VRT. This incident is just one example of how political interference can impact public broadcasters’ operations and decision-making processes, raising concerns about their independence and impartiality.