Subsequent Events [Abstract] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Senior Notes Senior Notes [Member] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 2023 VM Dollar Senior Notes 2023 VM Dollar Senior Notes [Member] 2023 VM Dollar Senior Notes [Member] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event [Line Items] Extinguishment of debt Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Equity [Abstract] Equity Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] 2018 PSUs 2018 PSUs [Member] 2018 PSUs [Member] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] PSUs Performance Shares [Member] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] Vesting [Domain] April 1, 2020 April 1, 2020 [Member] April 1, 2020 [Member] October 1, 2020 October 1, 2020 [Member] October 1, 2020 [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Percent of annual incentive compensation receivable in shares Shareholder Inventive Program, Percent of Annual Incentive Compensation Shareholder Inventive Program, Percent of Annual Incentive Compensation Award grant (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Award performance period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Performance Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Performance Period Award performance range Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Performance Range Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Performance Range Award expected performance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Expected Performance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Expected Performance Award vesting rights Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Share-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Investments [Abstract] Investment [Table] Investment [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] VodafoneZiggo JV VodafoneZiggo JV [Member] VodafoneZiggo JV [Member] Other Other Unnamed Investment [Member] Other Unnamed Investment [Member] ITV plc (ITV) — subject to re-use rights ITV - Subject to Re-Use Rights [Member] ITV - Subject to Re-Use Rights [Member] Sumitomo Corporation (Sumitomo) Sumitomo [Member] Sumitomo [Member] ITI Neovision S.A. (ITI Neovision) ITI Neovision [Member] ITI Neovision [Member] Lions Gate Entertainment Corp (Lionsgate) Lionsgate [Member] Lionsgate [Member] Casa Systems, Inc. (Casa) Casa Systems, Inc. (Casa) [Member] Casa Systems, Inc. (Casa) [Member] Investment [Line Items] Investment [Line Items] Equity Equity Method Investments Fair value Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Cost Equity Securities, FV-NI, Cost Cost Cost Method Investments Total Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Share of results of affiliates, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Summarized results of operations of the VodafoneZiggo JV Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information [Abstract] Revenue Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Revenue Loss before income taxes Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Net loss Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Net Income (Loss) Accrued Income Taxes [Abstract] Income Tax Benefit (Expense) Reconciliation Table Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Acquisitions and Dispositions [Abstract] Acquisitions and Dispositions [Abstract] Schedule of summarized financial position and operating results, disposal group and discontinued operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Axis] Counterparty Name [Domain] Counterparty Name [Domain] Notional amount due from counterparty Due From Counterparty [Member] Due From Counterparty [Member] Notional amount due to counterparty Due To Counterparty [Member] Due To Counterparty [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Virgin Media Virgin Media [Member] Virgin Media [Member] UPC Holding UPC Holding [Member] UPC Holding [Member] Telenet Telenet [Member] Telenet [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Cross-Currency Swap 1 Cross-Currency Swap 1 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 1 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 2 Cross-Currency Swap 2 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 2 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 3 Cross-Currency Swap 3 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 3 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 4 Cross-Currency Swap 4 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 4 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 5 Cross-Currency Swap 5 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 5 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 6 Cross-Currency Swap 6 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 6 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 7 Cross-Currency Swap 7 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 7 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 8 Cross-Currency Swap 8 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 8 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 9 Cross-Currency Swap 9 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 9 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 10 Cross-Currency Swap 10 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 10 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 11 Cross-Currency Swap 11 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 11 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 12 Cross-Currency Swap 12 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 12 [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Notional amount of derivative Derivative, Notional Amount Weighted average remaining life Derivative, Average Remaining Maturity Notional amount of derivative instruments without exchange of notional amounts at inception and maturity Notional Amount of Derivative Instruments without Exchange of Notional Amounts at Inception and Maturity Notional Amount of Derivative Instruments without Exchange of Notional Amounts at Inception and Maturity Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] ASU 2014-09 Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member] ASU 2017-07 Accounting Standards Update 2017-07 [Member] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] ASU 2014-09 Adjustments Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] Assets: Assets [Abstract] Trade receivables, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Current assets of discontinued operations (note 4) Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current Other current assets Other Assets, Current Investments and related note receivables Long-term Investments Deferred tax assets Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Long-term assets of discontinued operations (note 4) Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Noncurrent Other assets, net Other Assets, Noncurrent Liabilities: Liabilities [Abstract] Deferred revenue Contract with Customer, Liability, Current Current liabilities of discontinued operations (note 4) Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current Other accrued and current liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Long-term liabilities of discontinued operations (note 4) Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Equity: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract] Schedule of debt Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Long-lived Assets [Abstract] Long lived Assets [Abstract] Noncash vendor financing arrangement, cash increase, excluding value added tax Property Plant And Equipment, Additions, Vendor Financing Arrangement Property Plant And Equipment, Additions, Vendor Financing Arrangement Value added tax, vendor financing arrangement Value Added Tax, Vendor Financing Arrangement Value Added Tax, Vendor Financing Arrangement Capital leases Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Distribution systems Distribution Systems [Member] Distribution Systems [Member] Customer premises equipment Customer Premises Equipment [Member] Customer Premises Equipment [Member] Support equipment, buildings and land Support Equipment, Buildings and Land [Member] Support Equipment, Buildings and Land [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Total property and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Total property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Trade receivables, allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Contract assets Contract with Customer, Asset, Net Deferred revenue Contract with Customer, Liability Revenue recognized Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized Aggregate assets associated with incremental costs to obtain a contract and contract fulfillment costs Capitalized Contract Cost, Net Amortization related to contract costs Capitalized Contract Cost, Amortization Unsatisfied performance obligations, description of timing Revenue, Performance Obligation, Description of Timing Unrecorded Purchase Obligation Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Disclosure [Table Text Block] Accounting Changes and Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Other Other Subsidiaries [Member] Relating to Other Subsidiaries not otherwise identified. Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] 2018 (remainder of year) Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2020 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2021 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2022 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five 2023 Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments of Principal in Year Six Amount of long-term debt maturing in year six following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed of determinable prices and dates. Thereafter Long Term Debt Maturities Repayments of Principal after Year Six Amount of long-term debt maturities after year six following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements, which may include maturities of long-term debt, sinking fund requirements, and other securities redeemable at fixed of determinable prices and dates. Total debt maturities Long-term Debt, Gross Contractual Maturities Long-term Debt, Gross Contractual Maturities Deferred financing costs, discounts and premiums, net Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Total debt Long-term Debt Contractual Maturities Long-term Debt Contractual Maturities Current portion Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Noncurrent portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Ordinary shares Common Stock [Member] Nonvoting Common Stock Nonvoting Common Stock [Member] Cross-currency and interest rate derivative contracts Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] Lionsgate Loan Lionsgate Loan [Member] Lionsgate Loan [Member] Counterparty Credit Risk Counterparty Credit Risk [Member] Counterparty Credit Risk [Member] Sumitomo Share Loan Sumitomo Share Loan [Member] Sumitomo Share Loan [Member] Gain (loss) in changes in the credit risk valuation adjustments associated with our cross-currency and interest rate derivative contracts Gain Loss On Credit Risk Derivatives Net Recognized In Earnings Gain Loss On Credit Risk Derivatives Net Recognized In Earnings Number of common stock shares owned (in shares) Investment Owned, Balance, Shares Derivative assets Derivative Asset Aggregate market value of borrowed shares Securities Borrowed for which No Value is Paid or Credited Schedule of Fair Values of Derivative Instrument Assets and Liabilities Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of Realized and Unrealized Losses on Derivative Instruments Schedule Of Realized And Unrealized Gains Losses On Derivative Instruments Text Block Schedule Of Realized And Unrealized Gains Losses On Derivative Instruments. Schedule of Cash Received (Paid) Related to Derivative Instruments Statement of Cash Flows Location Schedule Of Cash Received Paid Related To Derivative Instruments Statement Of Cash Flows Location Text Block Schedule Of Cash Received Paid Related To Derivative Instruments Statement Of Cash Flows Location. Schedule of Derivative Instruments Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities (Net) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Table] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Axis] Asset Class [Domain] Asset Class [Domain] Investments Investments [Member] Cross-currency and interest rate derivative contracts Cross-Currency and Interest Rate Derivative Contracts [Member] Cross-Currency and Interest Rate Derivative Contracts [Member] Equity-related derivative instruments Equity-Related Derivative Instruments [Member] Equity-Related Derivative Instruments [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Balance of net assets (liabilities) at January 1, 2018 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Value Gains included in net earnings (loss) Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings [Abstract] Realized and unrealized (gains) losses, net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Impact of ASU 2016-01 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Impact of ASU Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Impact of ASU Additions Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Dispositions Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Final settlement of Sumitomo Collar Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Settlements Transfers out of Level 3 Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Foreign currency translation adjustments, dividends and other, net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net Balance of net assets (liabilities) at September 30, 2018 Schedule of PP&E Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Changes in Carrying Amount of Goodwill Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Intangible Assets Subject to Amortization, Net Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Impact of derivative instruments on borrowing costs Impact of Derivative Instruments on Borrowing Costs, Percent Increase (Decrease) Impact of Derivative Instruments on Borrowing Costs, Percent Increase (Decrease) Share-based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Income Statement [Abstract] Revenue (notes 3, 5 and 16) Revenue from Contract with Customer, Including Assessed Tax Operating costs and expenses (exclusive of depreciation and amortization, shown separately below): Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Programming and other direct costs of services Cost of Goods and Services Sold Other operating (note 12) Other Cost and Expense, Operating Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) (note 12) Selling, General and Administrative Expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Impairment, restructuring and other operating items, net (notes 13 and 15) Restructuring, Settlement and Impairment Provisions Operating costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Non-operating income (expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense Interest Expense Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net (note 6) Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Foreign currency transaction gains (losses), net Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Realized and unrealized gains (losses) due to changes in fair values of certain investments and debt, net (notes 5, 7 and 9) Realized And Unrealized Gains (Losses) Due To Changes In Fair Values of Certain Investments and Debt, Net Realized And Unrealized Gains (Losses) Due To Changes In Fair Values of Certain Investments and Debt, Net Losses on debt modification and extinguishment, net (note 9) Gains (Losses) on Restructuring of Debt Share of results of affiliates, net (note 5) Non-operating income (expense) Nonoperating Income (Expense) Loss from continuing operations before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Income tax expense (note 10) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Loss from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Discontinued operations (note 4): Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period, Net of Tax Gain on disposal of discontinued operations, net of taxes Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax Net earnings (loss) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Basic and diluted loss from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per share (note 14) (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic and Diluted Share Interest Rate Swap Interest Rate Swap [Member] Interest Rate Swaption 1 Interest Rate Swaption 1 [Member] Interest Rate Swaption 1 [Member] Interest Rate Swaption 2 Interest Rate Swaption 2 [Member] Interest Rate Swaption 2 [Member] Interest Rate Swaption Interest Rate Swaption [Member] Weighted average strike rate Derivative, Average Swaption Interest Rate Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block] Segment Reporting, Measurement Disclosures [Abstract] Adjusted OIBDA from continuing operations Adjusted Operating Income (Loss) before Depreciation and Amortization Adjusted Operating Income (Loss) before Depreciation and Amortization Share-based compensation expense Share-based Compensation Depreciation and amortization Impairment, restructuring and other operating items, net Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net Foreign currency transaction gains (losses), net Realized and unrealized gains (losses) due to changes in fair values of certain investments and debt, net Losses on debt modification and extinguishment, net Loss from continuing operations before income taxes Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income taxes. Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Total Liberty Global shareholders Parent [Member] Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated other comprehensive earnings, net of taxes AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Treasury shares, at cost Treasury Stock [Member] Non-controlling interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Class A Common Class A [Member] Class B Common Class B [Member] Class C Common Class C [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Balance at January 1, 2018, before effect of accounting change Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Accounting change (note 2) Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Balance at January 1, 2018, as adjusted for accounting change Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Adjusted Balance Net earnings Other comprehensive loss, net of taxes Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Repurchase and cancellation of Liberty Global ordinary shares (note 11) Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value Distributions by subsidiaries to noncontrolling interest owners (note 11) Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Repurchases by Telenet of its outstanding shares Stock Repurchased During Period, Value Share-based compensation (note 12) Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Adjustments due to changes in subsidiaries’ equity and other, net Stockholders' Equity, Other Balance at September 30, 2018 Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Threshold percentage used to determine reportable segments using one of three criteria of revenue, operating cash flow or total assets Threshold Percentage Of Revenue Operating Cash Flows Or Total Assets Used To Identify Reportable Segments Threshold Percentage Of Revenue Operating Cash Flows Or Total Assets Used To Identify Reportable Segments. Performance measures, percentage of reportable segment revenue and operating cash flow presented Performance Measures Percentage Of Reportable Segment Revenue And Operating Cash Flow Presented Performance Measures Percentage Of Reportable Segment Revenue And Operating Cash Flow Presented Percentage of minority interest revenues and expenses included in net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interest Percentage Of Minority Interest Revenues And Expenses From Consolidated Statements Of Operations Included In Net Earnings Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Percentage Of Minority Interest Revenues And Expenses From Consolidated Statements Of Operations Included In Net Earnings Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Restructuring and Related Activities [Abstract] Restructuring Liability Restructuring and Related Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Schedule of Restructuring and Related Costs [Table] Restructuring Type [Axis] Restructuring Type [Axis] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Type of Restructuring [Domain] Employee severance and termination Employee Severance [Member] Office closures Facility Closing [Member] Contract termination and other Other Restructuring [Member] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Geographical [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Belgium BELGIUM Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring liability as of January 1, 2018 Restructuring Reserve Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Cash paid Payments for Restructuring Foreign currency translation adjustments Restructuring Reserve, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Restructuring liability as of September 30, 2018 Current portion Restructuring Reserve, Current Noncurrent portion Restructuring Reserve, Noncurrent Total Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Discontinued operations - Vodafone Disposal Group and UPC Austria Vodafone Disposal Group and UPC Austria [Member] Vodafone Disposal Group and UPC Austria [Member] Discontinued operations - LiLAC Group LiLAC Group [Member] LiLAC Group [Member] Cash flows from operating activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations Loss from continuing operations Adjustments to reconcile loss from continuing operations to net cash provided by operating activities from continuing operations: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Share-based compensation expense Impairment, restructuring and other operating items, net Amortization of deferred financing costs and non-cash interest Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Realized and unrealized losses (gains) on derivative instruments, net Foreign currency transaction losses (gains), net Realized and unrealized losses due to changes in fair values of certain investments and debt, net Realized and Unrealized Losses (Gains) due to Changes in Fair Values of Certain Investments and Debt Realized and Unrealized Losses (Gains) due to Changes in Fair Values of Certain Investments and Debt Losses on debt modification and extinguishment, net Share of results of affiliates, net Deferred income tax benefit Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Changes in operating assets and liabilities, net of the effects of acquisitions and dispositions Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Dividends from affiliates and others Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution Net cash provided by operating activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash provided by operating activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash flows from investing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] Proceeds received upon disposition of discontinued operation, net Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Net of Cash Divested Capital expenditures, net Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Cash paid in connection with acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Investments in and loans to affiliates and others Payments to Acquire Interest in Subsidiaries and Affiliates Distributions received from affiliates Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital Equalization payment related to the VodafoneZiggo JV Transaction Proceeds from Collection of Advance to Affiliate Other investing activities, net Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Net cash provided by investing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash used by investing activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash provided by investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash flows from financing activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] Repayments and repurchases of debt and capital lease obligations Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities Borrowings of debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt Repurchase of Liberty Global ordinary shares Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock Repurchase by Telenet of its outstanding shares Payments for Repurchase of Other Equity Payment of financing costs and debt premiums Payment Of Deferred Financing Costs Debt Premiums And Exchange Offer Consideration Payment Of Deferred Financing Costs Debt Premiums And Exchange Offer Consideration Net cash received (paid) related to derivative instruments Payments for (Proceeds from) Hedge, Financing Activities Value-added taxes (VAT) paid on behalf of the VodafoneZiggo JV Payments of Value-Added Taxes, Joint Venture Payments of Value-Added Taxes, Joint Venture Other financing activities, net Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net cash used by financing activities of continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations Net cash provided (used) by financing activities of discontinued operations Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Discontinued Operations Net cash used by financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash: Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash [Abstract] Continuing operations Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Discontinued operations Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Discontinued Operations Total Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash: Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) [Abstract] Continuing operations Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations Discontinued operations - LiLAC Group Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations Total Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash: Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents [Abstract] Beginning of period Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Net increase (decrease) (excluding, during the 2017 period, LiLAC Group activity related to cash balances included in discontinued operations) Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Excluding Disposal Group and Discontinued Operations Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Excluding Disposal Group and Discontinued Operations End of period Cash paid for interest: Interest Paid, Including Capitalized Interest, Operating and Investing Activities [Abstract] Continuing operations Interest Paid, Continuing Operations Interest Paid, Continuing Operations Discontinued operations Interest Paid, Discontinued Operations Total Interest Paid, Including Capitalized Interest, Operating and Investing Activities Net cash paid for taxes: Income Taxes Paid, Net [Abstract] Continuing operations Income Taxes Paid, Continuing Operations Income Taxes Paid, Continuing Operations Discontinued operations Income Taxes Paid, Discontinued Operations Income Taxes Paid, Discontinued Operations Total Income Taxes Paid, Net Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] U.K./Ireland U.K. / Ireland [Member] U.K. / Ireland [Member] Switzerland SWITZERLAND Central and Eastern Europe Central and Eastern Europe [Member] Central and Eastern Europe [Member] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] January 1, 2018 Goodwill Acquisitions and related adjustments Goodwill, Purchase Accounting Adjustments Foreign currency translation adjustments Goodwill, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) September 30, 2018 Acquisitions and Dispositions Mergers, Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosures [Text Block] Subsequent Event Subsequent Events [Text Block] Intersegment eliminations Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Central and Corporate Central and Corporate [Member] Central and Corporate [Member] Revenue Adjusted OIBDA Adjusted OIBDA Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, EBITDA Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, EBITDA Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Medium-term Notes Medium-term Notes [Member] Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] 2023 VM Sterling Senior Notes 2023 VM Sterling Senior Notes [Member] 2023 VM Sterling Senior Notes [Member] VM Financing Facilities VM Financing Facilities [Member] VM Financing Facilities [Member] Telenet Credit Facility AB Telenet Credit Facility AB [Member] Telenet Credit Facility AB [Member] Telenet Finance VI Notes Telenet Finance VI Notes [Member] Telenet Finance VI Notes [Member] Telenet Facility AL Add-on Telenet Facility AL Add-on [Member] Telenet Facility AL Add-on [Member] Telenet Credit Facility V Telenet Credit Facility V [Member] Telenet Credit Facility V [Member] Telenet Finance V Notes Telenet Finance V Notes [Member] Telenet Finance V Notes [Member] Telenet Facility AN Telenet Facility AN [Member] Telenet Facility AN [Member] Telenet Credit Facility AO Telenet Credit Facility AO [Member] Telenet Credit Facility AO [Member] Telenet Credit Facility AL Telenet Credit Facility AL [Member] Telenet Credit Facility AL [Member] Telenet Credit Facility AM Telenet Credit Facility AM [Member] Telenet Credit Facility AM [Member] Telenet Facility AN Add-on Telenet Facility AN Add-on [Member] Telenet Facility AN Add-on [Member] Telenet Facility AO Add-on Telenet Facility AO Add-on [Member] Telenet Facility AO Add-on [Member] UPC Facility AR UPC Facility AR [Member] UPC Facility AR [Member] UPC Facility AS UPC Facility AS [Member] UPC Facility AS [Member] UPC Facility AK UPC Facility AK [Member] UPC Facility AK [Member] UPCB Finance IV Euro Notes UPCB Finance IV Euro Notes [Member] UPCB Finance IV Euro Notes [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] LIBOR London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] EURIBOR EURIBOR [Member] EURIBOR [Member] Number of borrowing groups Number of Borrowing Groups Number of Borrowing Groups Non-cash borrowings and repayments of debt Non-Cash Borrowings and Repayments of Debt Non-Cash Borrowings and Repayments of Debt Principal amount of debt Debt Instrument, Face Amount Loss on debt modification and extinguishment Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Payments for debt redemption premium Payments For Debt Redemption Premium Payments For Debt Redemption Premium Write-off of unamortized discounts and deferred financing costs Write-off of Unamortized Debt Discount and Deferred Financing Cost Write-off of Unamortized Debt Discount and Deferred Financing Cost Percentage of principal amount redeemed Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed Issue price percentage Debt Instrument, Original Issue Price, Percentage The issue price of the debt instrument, expressed as a percentage of the principal amount. Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Floor rate Debt Instrument, Floor Interest Rate Debt Instrument, Floor Interest Rate Dividends Dividends Outstanding principal amount Long-term Debt, Gross Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, by Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities [Axis] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain] Stock Options, SARs and RSUs Stock Options, SARs and RSUs [Member] Stock Options, SARs and RSUs [Member] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Aggregate number of shares excluded from computation of EPS Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Common Class A and Common Class C Common Class A and Common Class C [Member] Common Class A and Common Class C [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Shares repurchased (in shares) Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Shares Average price paid per share (in dollars per share) Treasury Stock Acquired, Average Cost Per Share Total cost Authorized amount Stock Repurchase Program, Authorized Amount Remaining authorized repurchase amount Stock Repurchase Program, Remaining Authorized Repurchase Amount Summary of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Reconciliation of the Beginning and Ending Balances of Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value Using Significant Unobservable, or Level 3, Inputs Fair Value, Measured on Recurring Basis, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings [Table Text Block] Loss from continuing operations Net earnings from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net loss from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding - basic and diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted Class A ordinary shares, $0.01 nominal value. Issued and outstanding 204,401,956 and 219,668,579 shares, respectively Class B ordinary shares, $0.01 nominal value. Issued and outstanding 11,099,593 shares and 11,102,619 shares, respectively Class C ordinary shares, $0.01 nominal value. Issued and outstanding 544,478,877 and 584,332,055 shares, respectively ASSETS Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Derivative instruments (note 6) Derivative Asset, Current Prepaid expenses Prepaid Expense, Current Other current assets (notes 3 and 5) Total current assets Assets, Current Investments and related note receivables (including $1,476.4 million and $2,315.3 million, respectively, measured at fair value on a recurring basis) (note 5) Property and equipment, net (note 8) Goodwill (note 8) Deferred tax assets (note 10) Other assets, net (notes 3, 6 and 8) Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Current portion of debt and capital lease obligations (note 9) Debt, Current Accrued capital expenditures Accrued Capital Expenditures, Current Accrued Capital Expenditures, Current Other accrued and current liabilities (notes 6 and 13) Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt and capital lease obligations (note 9) Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Other long-term liabilities (notes 6, 10, and 13) Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (notes 6, 9, 10 and 15) Commitments and Contingencies Equity (note 11): Liberty Global shareholders: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated other comprehensive earnings, net of taxes Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Treasury shares, at cost Treasury Stock, Value Total Liberty Global shareholders Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Document and Entity Information [Abstract] Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and Entity Information [Table] Document and Entity Information [Table] Document and Entity Information [Table] Document and Entity Information [Line Items] Document and Entity Information [Line Items] [Line Items] for Document and Entity Information [Table] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Emerging Growth Company Entity Small Business Entity Small Business Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Axis] Subsegments [Domain] Subsegments [Domain] Broadband Communications and DHT Operations [Member] Broadband Communications and DHT Operations [Member] Broadband Communications and DHT Operations [Member] Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Interkabel Acquisition [Member] Interkabel Acquisition [Member] Interkabel Acquisition [Member] Deutsche Telekom Litigation [Member] Deutsche Telekom Litigation [Member] Deutsche Telekom Litigation [Member] Belgium Regulatory Developments [Member] Belgium Regulatory Developments [Member] Belgium Regulatory Developments [Member] Virgin Media VAT Matters [Member] Virgin Media VAT Matters [Member] Virgin Media VAT Matters [Member] Virgin Media VAT Matters 2 [Member] Virgin Media VAT Matters 2 [Member] Virgin Media VAT Matters 2 [Member] Other Regulatory Issues [Member] Unfavorable Regulatory Action [Member] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] U.K. UNITED KINGDOM Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Programming costs Programming and Copyright Costs Programming and Copyright Costs Number of associations of municipalities in Belgium Number of Associations of Municipalities in Belgium Number of Associations of Municipalities in Belgium Damages sought Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Loss contingency accrual Loss Contingency Accrual Loss contingency damages in excess value Loss Contingency Damages In Excess Value Loss Contingency Damages In Excess Value Estimate of possible loss Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Percent of reduction in monthly wholesale cable resale access prices Percent of Reduction in Monthly Wholesale Cable Resale Access Prices Percent of Reduction in Monthly Wholesale Cable Resale Access Prices Reduction of annual lease fees Reduction of Annual Lease Fees Reduction of Annual Lease Fees Continuing operations Income Taxes Paid Provisions for litigation Gain (Loss) Related to Litigation Settlement Interest expense Income Tax Examination, Interest Expense Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Basis of Presentation [Table] Basis of Presentation [Table] Basis of Presentation [Table] Liberty Puerto Rico Liberty Puerto Rico [Member] Liberty Puerto Rico [Member] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Axis] Product and Service [Domain] Product and Service [Domain] Consumer and Business-to-Business Communication Services Consumer and Business-to-Business Communication Services [Member] Consumer and Business-to-Business Communication Services [Member] Sub-Sea Networks Sub-Sea Networks [Member] Sub-Sea Networks [Member] Latin America and the Caribbean Latin America and the Caribbean [Member] Latin America and the Caribbean [Member] Cable & Wireless Communications Limited (C&W) Cable & Wireless Communications Limited (CWC) [Member] Cable & Wireless Communications Limited (CWC) [Member] Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Basis of Presentation [Line Items] [Line Items] for Basis of Presentation [Table] Percentage ownership in subsidiary Subsidiary or Equity Method Investee, Cumulative Percentage Ownership after All Transactions Number of countries in which entity provides services Number of Countries in which Entity Operates Number of markets Number of Markets Number of Markets Summary of stock-based compensation Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Schedule of stock option activity Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Schedule of other share based compensation activity Schedule of Other Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Performance-based incentive awards Performance-Based Incentive Awards [Member] Performance-Based Incentive Awards [Member] Non-performance based share-based incentive awards Non-Performance Based Share-Based Awards [Member] Non-Performance Based Share-Based Awards [Member] Other Other Share-Based Incentive Awards [Member] Other Share-Based Incentive Awards [Member] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Liberty Global Parent Company [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Other operating expense Other Operating Income (Expense) [Member] SG&A expense Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member] Long-lived Assets Long Lived Assets Disclosure [Text Block] The entire disclosure for long-lived assets. Schedule of Investments [Table] Schedule of Investments [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] Equity Method Investee Equity Method Investee [Member] Vodafone Vodafone [Member] Vodafone [Member] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Axis] Related Party Transaction [Domain] Related Party Transaction [Domain] VodafoneZiggo JV Loan VodafoneZiggo JV Loan [Member] VodafoneZiggo JV Loan [Member] JV Services JV Services [Member] JV Services [Member] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Investments [Line Items] Due from related party Receivable with Imputed Interest, Face Amount Receivable interest rate Receivable with Imputed Interest, Effective Yield (Interest Rate) Receivable annually Receivable with Imputed Interest, Net Amount, Receivable in Year One Receivable with Imputed Interest, Net Amount, Receivable in Year One Accrued interests settled in cash Increase (Decrease) in Accrued Interest Receivable, Net Percent of interest income earned on loan included in investment Percent of Interest Income Earned on Loan Included in Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Percent of Interest Income Earned on Loan Included in Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Percent of share-based compensation included in investment Percent of Share-based Compensation Included in Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Percent of Share-based Compensation Included in Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Percent of remaining results of operations included in investment Percent of Remaining Results of Operations Included in Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Percent of Remaining Results of Operations Included in Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Co-venturer ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Co-Venturer Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Co-Venturer Ownership Percentage Proceeds from financing arrangements Proceeds from Joint Venture Debt Financing Arrangements Proceeds from Joint Venture Debt Financing Arrangements Proceeds from equalization payment from affiliate Proceeds from Equalization Payment from Affiliate Proceeds from Equalization Payment from Affiliate Value-added taxes (VAT) paid on behalf of the VodafoneZiggo JV Transfer of assets Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Due from related party Due from Related Parties Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Equity-related derivative instruments: Equity Contract [Member] Foreign currency forward and option contracts Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Other Other Contract [Member] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Assets: Derivative Asset [Abstract] Current Long-term Derivative Asset, Noncurrent September 30, 2018 Liabilities: Derivative Liability [Abstract] Current Derivative Liability, Current Long-term Derivative Liability, Noncurrent Total Derivative Liability Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] SFR BeLux SFR BeLux [Member] SFR BeLux [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Consideration transferred Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Principal Transaction Revenue [Table] Principal Transaction Revenue [Table] Total residential cable revenue Cable [Member] Cable [Member] Total subscription revenue Cable Subscription [Member] Cable Subscription [Member] Video Cable Video Subscription [Member] Cable Video Subscription [Member] Broadband internet Cable Broadband Internet Subscription [Member] Cable Broadband Internet Subscription [Member] Fixed-line telephony Cable Fixed-line Telephony Subscription [Member] Cable Fixed-line Telephony Subscription [Member] Non-subscription revenue Cable Non-Subscription [Member] Cable Non-Subscription [Member] Total residential revenue Residential [Member] Residential [Member] Subscription revenue Mobile Subscription [Member] Mobile Subscription [Member] Non-subscription revenue Mobile Non-Subscription [Member] Mobile Non-Subscription [Member] Total residential mobile revenue Mobile Residential [Member] Mobile Residential [Member] Total B2B revenue Business to Business [Member] Business to Business [Member] Subscription revenue Business to Business Subscription [Member] Business to Business Subscription [Member] Non-subscription revenue Business to Business Non-Subscription [Member] Business to Business Non-Subscription [Member] Other revenue Other Category [Member] Other Category [Member] Summary of changes in restructuring liability Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Investments Investment Holdings [Text Block] Accounting Changes and Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition and Related Costs Revenue from Contract with Customer [Policy Text Block] Other, including intersegment eliminations (a) Geography Eliminations [Member] Ireland IRELAND Poland POLAND Slovakia SLOVAKIA Segment Reporting [Abstract] Total consolidated property and equipment additions Property, Plant and Equipment, Additions Assets acquired under capital-related vendor financing arrangements Assets Acquired Under Capital-Related Vendor Financing Arrangements Assets Acquired Under Capital-Related Vendor Financing Arrangements Assets acquired under capital leases Changes in current liabilities related to capital expenditures Increase Decrease in Current Liabilities Related to Capital Expenditures Increase Decrease in Current Liabilities Related to Capital Expenditures Third-party payments Payments to Acquire Other Productive Assets Proceeds received for transfers to related parties Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Total capital expenditures, net Payments for Capital Improvements Property and equipment additions - VodafoneZiggo JV Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Payment to Acquire Property, Plant and Equipment Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Payment to Acquire Property, Plant and Equipment Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Domain] Operating Activities [Domain] Other comprehensive earnings (loss) from continuing operations Continuing Operations [Member] Other comprehensive earnings (loss) from discontinued operations Discontinued Operations [Member] Net earnings (loss) Other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of taxes: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Foreign currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Gain (Loss) Arising During Period, Net of Tax Pension-related adjustments and other Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment And Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease Other Comprehensive Income Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment And Derivatives Qualifying As Hedges Net Of Tax Period Increase Decrease Other comprehensive earnings (loss) from continuing operations Comprehensive earnings (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Foreign currency forward and option contracts Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Earnings or Loss per Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Performance Measures of Our Reportable Segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Property and Equipment Additions of our Reportable Segments Schedule of Reporting Capital Expenditures of Reportable Segments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Reporting Capital Expenditures of Reportable Segments [Table Text Block] Revenue by Major Category Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Geographic Segments Revenue from External Customers by Geographic Areas [Table Text Block] Details of end of period cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash: Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Including Disposal Group and Discontinued Operations [Abstract] Restricted cash included in other current assets and other assets, net Restricted Cash, Current Restricted cash included in current and long-term assets of discontinued operations Restricted Cash, Noncurrent Total cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Customer relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Other Other Intangible Assets [Member] Gross carrying amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Net carrying amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Schedule of Investments by Accounting Method Schedule of Investments by Accounting Method [Table Text Block] Schedule of Investments by Accounting Method [Table Text Block] Equity Method Investments Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Schedule of Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares Schedule of Weighted Average Number of Shares [Table Text Block] VM Notes VM Notes [Member] VM Notes [Member] VM Credit Facilities VM Credit Facility [Member] VM Credit Facility [Member] UPCB SPE Notes UPCB SPE Notes [Member] UPCB SPE Notes [Member] UPC Holding Bank Facility UPC Holding Bank Facility [Member] UPC Holding Bank Facility [Member] UPC Holding Senior Notes UPC Holding Senior Notes Debt [Member] UPC Holding Senior Notes Debt [Member] Telenet Credit Facility Telenet Credit Facility [Member] Telenet Credit Facility [Member] Telenet Senior Secured Notes Telenet Senior Secured Notes [Member] Telenet Senior Secured Notes [Member] Telenet SPE Notes Telenet SPE Notes [Member] Telenet SPE Notes [Member] Vendor financing Vendor Financing [Member] Vendor Financing [Member] ITV Collar Loan ITV Collar Loan [Member] ITV Collar Loan [Member] Derivative-related debt instruments Derivative Related Debt Instruments [Member] Derivative Related Debt Instruments [Member] Sumitomo Collar Loan Sumitomo Collar Loan Debt [Member] Sumitomo Collar Loan Debt [Member] Other Other Debt [Member] Other Debt [Member] Aggregate Variable and Fixed Rate Indebtedness Aggregate Variable and Fixed Rate Indebtedness [Member] Aggregate Variable And Fixed Rate Indebtedness [Member] VM Revolving Credit Facility VM Revolving Credit Facility [Member] VM Revolving Credit Facility [Member] VM Revolving Facility A VM Revolving Facility A [Member] VM Revolving Facility A [Member] VM Revolving Facility B VM Revolving Facility B [Member] VM Revolving Facility B [Member] Telenet Facility AG Telenet Facility AG [Member] Telenet Facility AG [Member] Telenet Overdraft Facility Telenet Overdraft Facility [Member] Telenet Overdraft Facility [Member] Telenet Revolving Facility Telenet Revolving Facility [Member] Telenet Revolving Facility [Member] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain] Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Weighted average interest rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Unused borrowing capacity Debt Instrument, Unused Borrowing Capacity, Amount Estimated fair value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Total debt before deferred financing costs, discounts and premiums Deferred financing costs, discounts and premiums, net Total carrying amount of debt Long-term Debt Capital lease obligations Capital Lease Obligations Total debt and capital lease obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Current maturities of debt and capital lease obligations Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term debt and capital lease obligations Facility amount Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity General term of vendor financing arrangements General Term of Vendor Financing Arrangements for Amounts Due General Term of Vendor Financing Arrangements for Amounts Due Debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value ITV Collar ITV Collar [Member] ITV Collar [Member] Lionsgate Forward Lionsgate Forward [Member] Lionsgate Forward [Member] Sumitomo Collar Sumitomo Collar [Member] Relating to the Sumitomo Collar Other Other Equity Related Derivative Instrument [Member] Other Equity Related Derivative Instrument [Member] Gain (loss) on derivative instruments, net Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] UPC Austria UPC Austria [Member] UPC Austria [Member] Vodafone Disposal Group Vodafone Disposal Group [Member] Vodafone Disposal Group [Member] LiLAC Group Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Discontinued Operations Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale [Member] Discontinued Operations, Split-off Transaction Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Spinoff [Member] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Assets: Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets [Abstract] Current assets other than cash Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets, Current Property and equipment, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Noncurrent Goodwill Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Goodwill, Noncurrent Other assets, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets Liabilities: Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities [Abstract] Current portion of debt and capital lease obligations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Other accrued and current liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Long-term debt and capital lease obligations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities Operating results of discontinued operations Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Income Statement Disclosures [Abstract] Revenue Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue Operating income (loss) Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Operating Income (Loss) Earnings (loss) before income taxes and noncontrolling interests Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax Income tax benefit (expense) Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Net loss (earnings) attributable to noncontrolling interests Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Basic earnings (loss) from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per Liberty Global Share (in dollars per share) Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic Share Basic and diluted loss from discontinued operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per LiLAC Share (in dollars per share) Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic and Diluted Share Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding (LiLAC Shares) - basic and diluted (in shares) Long-term Debt Long-term Debt [Member] Consideration for disposal Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration Compensatory payment Disposal Group, Compensatory Payment Disposal Group, Compensatory Payment Term of transitional services Disposal Group, Term of Transitional Services Disposal Group, Term of Transitional Services Payments of vendor financing obligations Repayments of Long-term Loans from Vendors Cumulative foreign currency translation gains Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Foreign Currency Translation Gains (Losses) Revenue from transitional services Revenue From Transitional Services Revenue From Transitional Services Common shares distributed Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operations, Common Share Distribution Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operations, Common Share Distribution Gain (loss) on discontinued operation Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax 2018 (remainder of year) Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2020 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2021 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2022 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years 2023 Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Six Years Contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization, due within the fifth year from the balance sheet date. Thereafter Capital Lease Future Minimum Payments Due After Year Six Contractually required rental payments on leases meeting the criteria for capitalization, due after the sixth year from the balance sheet date. Total principal and interest payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Amounts representing interest Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Interest Included in Payments Present value of net minimum lease payments Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Present Value of Net Minimum Payments Current portion Capital Lease Obligations, Current Noncurrent portion Capital Lease Obligations, Noncurrent Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Computed “expected” tax benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Mandatory Repatriation Tax Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Transition Tax on Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Transition Tax on Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Amount Change in valuation allowances: Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Valuation Allowance, Amount [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Valuation Allowance, Amount [Abstract] Expense Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Basis and other differences in the treatment of items associated with investments in subsidiaries and affiliates: Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Basis and Other Differences in the Treatment of Items Associated with Investments in Subsidiaries and Affiliates, Amount [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Basis and Other Differences in the Treatment of Items Associated with Investments in Subsidiaries and Affiliates, Amount [Abstract] Expense Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Basis and Other Differences in the Treatment of Items Associated with Investments in Subsidiaries and Affiliates, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Basis and Other Differences in the Treatment of Items Associated with Investments in Subsidiaries and Affiliates, Amount Benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Basis and Other Differences in the Treatment of Items Associated with Investments in Subsidiaries and Affiliates, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Basis and Other Differences in the Treatment of Items Associated with Investments in Subsidiaries and Affiliates, Amount Non-deductible or non-taxable foreign currency exchange results: Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Non-Deductible or Non-Taxable Foreign Currency Exchange Results, Amount [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Non-Deductible or Non-Taxable Foreign Currency Exchange Results, Amount [Abstract] Expense Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Non-Deductible or Non-Taxable Foreign Currency Exchange Results, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Non-Deductible or Non-Taxable Foreign Currency Exchange Results, Amount Benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Non-Deductible or Non-Taxable Foreign Currency Exchange Results, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Non-Deductible or Non-Taxable Foreign Currency Exchange Results, Amount Non-deductible or non-taxable interest and other items Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Non-deductible or Non-Taxable Interest and Other Expenses, Amount [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Non-deductible or Non-Taxable Interest and Other Expenses, Amount [Abstract] Expense Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Non-deductible or Non-Taxable Interest and Other Expenses, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Non-deductible or Non-Taxable Interest and Other Expenses, Amount Benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Non-deductible or Non-Taxable Interest and Other Expenses, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Non-deductible or Non-Taxable Interest and Other Expenses, Amount International rate differences: Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, International Rate Differences, Amount [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, International Rate Differences, Amount [Abstract] Expense Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Decrease in Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount Benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Increase in Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount Recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits Income Tax Reconciliation, Previously Unrecognized Tax Benefits Income Tax Reconciliation, Previously Unrecognized Tax Benefits Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount Total income tax expense Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual [Axis] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Held by Liberty Global employees: Employees [Member] Employees [Member] Held by former Liberty Global employees: Former Employees [Member] Former Employees [Member] Options and SARs Options and Share Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] Options and Share Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] RSUs Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Options outstanding (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Options outstanding, weighted average exercise or base price (in dollars per shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options exercisable (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Options exercisable, weighted average exercise price or base price (in dollars per shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Other than options outstanding (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Axis] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Income Tax Authority [Domain] Domestic Tax Authority Domestic Tax Authority [Member] Income Taxes [Line Items] Income Taxes [Line Items] [Line Items] for Income Taxes [Table] Income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent 2017 U.S. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, provisional liability recorded Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax for Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Provisional Liability Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Incomplete Accounting, Transition Tax for Accumulated Foreign Earnings, Provisional Liability Unrecognized tax benefits Unrecognized Tax Benefits Unrecognized tax benefits that would have a favorable impact Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Decrease in unrecognized tax benefits reasonable possible amount Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible Decrease in unrecognized tax benefits, amount of positive impact on effective tax rate Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount Positive Impact on Effective Tax Rate Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount Positive Impact on Effective Tax Rate Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Table] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation by Category of Item Purchased [Axis] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Category of Goods or Services Acquired [Domain] Network and Connectivity Commitments [Member] Network and Connectivity Commitments [Member] Network and Connectivity Commitments [Member] Programming Commitments [Member] Programming Commitments [Member] Programming Commitments [Member] Purchase Commitments [Member] Purchase Commitments [Member] Purchase Commitments [Member] Operating Leases [Member] Operating Leases [Member] Operating Leases [Member] Other Commitments [Member] Other Commitments [Member] Other Commitments [Member] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items] Remainder of 2018 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due in Remainder of Fiscal Year 2019 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Two Years 2020 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Three Years 2021 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Four Years 2022 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due within Five Years 2023 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Balance On Sixth Anniversary Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Balance On Sixth Anniversary Thereafter Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Balance On Sixth Anniversary And Thereafter Unrecorded unconditional purchase obligation balance on sixth anniversary and thereafter. Total Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Investments Common stock, nominal value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, issued (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, outstanding (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Basis Swaps Basis Swap [Member] Interest Rate Caps Interest Rate Cap [Member] Interest Rate Collars Interest Rate Collar [Member] Interest Rate Collar Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Derivative instruments: Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Derivative instruments: Total liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Revenue Recognition and Related Costs Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block] Operating activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Operating Activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Operating Activities Investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Investing Activities Financing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities Total Payments For Proceeds From Derivatives Continuing Operations Payments For Proceeds From Derivatives Continuing Operations