The French connection: Digital television in France

This article analyses key aspects of the digital switchover process in French television, especially with regard to the nationwide roll-out of the terrestrial platform that was scheduled to be completed by the end of 2011. The article examines the central role of state authorities within the national media policy community in managing switchover and accommodating the interests of both public and private sector providers. It also evaluates the impact of the digital terrestrial platform for both long-established and new television channels. The article argues that the reconciliation of commercial, political and regulatory interests has been at the very heart of the transition from analogue to digital in France.