The leader of the organization oversees the institution's significant financial spending of a million dollars.
In a landmark decision, the Berlin Regional Court has ruled against former RBB director Patricia Schlesinger, finding her liable for financial misconduct that cost the public broadcaster an estimated 1.8 million euros.
The court's ruling, which is long overdue, marks a significant step towards accountability in the public broadcasting sector. The decision ensures fairness in contributions, as it concerns the money of contributors who pay for publicly funded media.
The dispute centres around improper allowances and a bonus system for the RBB management, which was introduced under Schlesinger's tenure. The court found these practices to be impermissible.
The RBB estimates the concrete damage from this debacle to be at least 13.6 million euros. The broadcaster can now seek damages, including for improperly accounted travel expenses and use of company vehicles.
The ruling creates a decisive role in the ongoing procedure, filling a gap in the public broadcasting system. It also means that the Directors and Officers Liability Insurance, which protects the top management level at the RBB, will no longer apply.
The amounts at stake in the dispute are relatively low five-figure sums, but the implications for the entire public broadcasting sector are significant. Liability will now apply, setting a precedent for future cases of financial misconduct.
Schlesinger, her husband, and former RBB supervisory board chairman Wolf-Dieter Wolf are still under investigation by the Berlin General Prosecutor's Office for nepotism and abuse of advantage. If found criminally liable, the costs could be substantial.
In a separate matter, Schlesinger is claiming payment of her agreed-upon severance pay after her dismissal as director. However, the court's ruling allows the RBB to demand larger sums from Schlesinger.
Our independent, left-wing, and opinionated daily newspaper, founded in 1979, will continue to report on this developing story as more details emerge.
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