How many countries operate a TV Licencing policy?

[Azimov]

Can you settle this debate? A friend of mine believes that there are only a handful of countries where a TV licence is NOT required. I believe the opposite is true, that the UK is only one of a handful of countries where a licence to own and operate a television IS required! Which of us is correct, or is there some grey area we should be aware of? P.S I'm going to go surf the net for answers now, but I thought I'd let you lot in on the question first. I posted the question here first because I figured a definitive answer may be of use to others :) Azimov

[Headtime]

I believe you are correct Azimov. Although after a bit of Googling, I found these two sites that, have information quite a few countries that levy a TV Licence fee. http://www.wordiq.com/definition/Television_licence http://www.obs.coe.int/db/gavis/redevance_tv.html However, in global terms, the number of countries that do is undoubtably in the minority. I think the UK is unique, though, in that the Television Networks that are funded by the Licence (BBC), do not carry advertising. Where as in other countries where a Licence fee is used, the Public Service Broadcasters still carry commmercials.

[Kev_UK]

You do not need a tv license to own a tv, only to use it. My Canadian wife thought I was joking when I told her we have to have a license to watch tv. Friends in USA and Canada think it's hilarious that you need a license to watch tv.