Vienna, Austria — April 17, 2026
A woman who accused former ORF General Director Roland Weißmann of sexual harassment is preparing legal action against both him and the Austrian public broadcaster, despite an internal investigation finding no evidence of misconduct.
The woman, whose identity has not been disclosed, is seeking compensation of 25,000 euros, protection from professional repercussions, and reimbursement for legal costs and potential future damages. Her lawyer, Sieglinde Gahleitner, confirmed the planned lawsuit, which challenges the findings of a compliance investigation that cleared Weißmann of sexual harassment allegations.
Disputed Findings and Legal Claims
The ORF's compliance investigation, conducted by three external lawyers, concluded there was no evidence of sexual harassment "in the legal sense or according to the Equal Treatment Act." However, the woman disputes this outcome, asserting that "there was no consent in a sexual context." Her legal team argues that the investigation failed to adequately address her claims.
Meanwhile, Weißmann, who was dismissed from his role, has announced his own legal challenge against the ORF. He is seeking nearly four million euros in damages, claiming his termination was unjustified. The dual legal battles highlight the ongoing fallout from the allegations, which have drawn significant public attention in Austria.