Swiss voters have rejected a proposal to cut taxpayer funding to public broadcasters, after a campaign that stirred debate about the media’s role in fostering national unity.

The “No Billag” initiative – a reference to the Billag firm that collects the media licensing fee – divided Switzerland along political and generational lines.

But 71% voted “no” to the proposals on Sunday, according to official results published by the Swiss news agency ATS.

Rejection of the initiative was “a strong sign for the public service and for private regional radio and television”, said Gilles Marchand, director of the Swiss Broadcasting Corporation (SSR).

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