Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Abstract] Summary of stock-based compensation Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block] Stock compensation assumptions Schedule of Share-based Payment Award, Stock Options, Valuation Assumptions [Table Text Block] Stock options activity Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Other-than-options activity Schedule of Other Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block] Investments [Abstract] Investment [Table] Investment [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] VodafoneZiggo JV [Member] VodafoneZiggo JV [Member] VodafoneZiggo JV [Member] Other [Member] Other Unnamed Investment [Member] Other Unnamed Investment [Member] ITV - Subject to Re-Use Rights [Member] ITV - Subject to Re-Use Rights [Member] ITV - Subject to Re-Use Rights [Member] Sumitomo [Member] Sumitomo [Member] Sumitomo [Member] Lionsgate [Member] Lionsgate [Member] Lionsgate [Member] ITI Neovision [Member] ITI Neovision [Member] ITI Neovision [Member] Casa Systems, Inc. (Casa) [Member] 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 Cost Method Investments Total Investments in and Advance to Affiliates, Subsidiaries, Associates, and Joint Ventures Share of losses of affiliates, net Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments Summarized Financial Condition 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) Current assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Assets Total assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Assets Total assets Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Assets Current liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Current Liabilities Long-term liabilities Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Noncurrent Liabilities Owners’ equity Equity Method Investment Summarized Financial Information, Equity Total liabilities and owners’ equity Equity Method Investment, Summarized Financial Information, Liabilities and Equity Long-lived Assets [Abstract] Long lived Assets [Abstract] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] European Operations Division U.K / Ireland [Member] European Operations Division U.K / Ireland [Member] European Operations Division U.K / Ireland [Member] European Operations Division Belgium [Member] European Operations Division Belgium [Member] European Operations Division Belgium [Member] European Operations Division The Netherlands [Member] European Operations Division Netherlands [Member] European Operations Division Netherlands [Member] European Operations Division Germany [Member] European Operations Division Germany [Member] European Operations Division Germany [Member] European Operations Division Switzerland / Austria [Member] European Operations Division Switzerland / Austria [Member] European Operations Division Switzerland / Austria [Member] European Operations Division Central and Eastern Europe [Member] European Operations Division Central and Eastern Europe [Member] European Operations Division Central and Eastern Europe [Member] Central and Corporate [Member] Central and Corporate [Member] Central and Corporate [Member] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill beginning balance Goodwill Acquisitions and related adjustments Goodwill, Acquired During Period Disposition Goodwill, Written off Related to Sale of Business Unit Foreign currency translation adjustments Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments Goodwill ending balance Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Derivative [Table] Derivative [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward [Member] Derivative [Line Items] Derivative [Line Items] Notional amount of derivative Derivative, Notional Amount Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Deferred tax assets Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Deferred tax liabilities Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Net deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] 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 Network and Connectivity Commitments [Member] Network and Connectivity Commitments [Member] Programming commitments Programming Commitments [Member] Programming Commitments [Member] Purchase commitments Purchase Commitments [Member] Purchase Commitments [Member] Operating leases Operating Leases [Member] Operating Leases [Member] Other commitments Other Commitments [Member] Other Commitments [Member] Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation [Line Items] 2018 Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months 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 Thereafter Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation, Due after Five Years Total Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligation Discontinued Operations and Disposal Groups [Abstract] Schedule of summarized financial position and operating results, disposal group and discontinued operations Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] Retirement Benefits [Abstract] Defined Benefit Plans Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Share-based Compensation Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Accounting Changes and Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Data [Abstract] Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Reclassifications Reclassifications [Text Block] Principles of Consolidation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Trade Receivables Receivables, Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivative Instruments Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Impairment of Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets Impairment of Property and Equipment and Intangible Assets [Policy Text Block] Describes an entity's accounting policy for recognizing and measuring the impairment of long-lived assets, which includes intangible assets. Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign Currency Translation and Transactions Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Share-based Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Litigation Costs Legal Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings or Loss per Ordinary Share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Performance shares (PSUs and PGUs) Performance Shares [Member] RSUs Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Common Class A [Member] Common Class A [Member] Common Class B [Member] Common Class B [Member] Common Class C [Member] Common Class C [Member] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Number of shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Impact of the Split-off Transaction (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Impact of the Split-off Transaction Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Impact of the Split-off Transaction Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Released from restrictions (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Released from Restrictions in Period The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that were released from restrictions during the reporting period. Outstanding at end of period (in shares) Weighted average grant-date fair value per share Weighted average grant date fair value per share [Abstract] Weighted average grant-date fair value per share Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Impact of the Split-off Transaction (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Impact of the Split-off Transaction, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Impact of the Split-off Transaction, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Released from restrictions (in dollars per shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Released From Restrictions in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value The weighted average fair value as of the grant date of equity-based award plans other than stock (unit) option plans that were released from restrictions during the period. Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per shares) Weighted average remaining contractual term, in years Weighted average remaining term [Abstract] Weighted average remaining term Outstanding at end of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Abstract] Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Axis] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Consolidated Entities [Domain] Liberty Global Plc [Member] Parent Company [Member] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] Operating costs and expenses: Operating Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Selling, general and administrative (including stock-based compensation) Selling, General and Administrative Expense Related-party fees and allocations Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Depreciation and amortization (note 9) Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Nonproduction Other operating expenses Other Cost and Expense, Operating Operating income Operating Income (Loss) Non-operating income (expense): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest expense — related-party Interest Income (Expense), Net Interest income — related-party Interest Income, Related Party Foreign currency transaction gains (losses), net Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Other income, net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Non-operating income (expense) Nonoperating Income (Expense) Earnings before income taxes and equity in earnings (losses) of consolidated subsidiaries, net Income Loss From Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes And Equity In Losses Of Consolidated Subsidiaries Net Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income taxes and equity in losses of consolidated subsidiaries, net. Equity in earnings (losses) of consolidated subsidiaries, net Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Consolidated Subsidiaries, Net Equity in Earnings (Losses) of Consolidated Subsidiaries, Net Income tax expense (benefit) Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Schedule of defined benefit plans Schedule of Net Funded Status [Table Text Block] Debt and Capital Lease Obligations [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] UPCB SPE Notes [Member] UPCB SPE Notes [Member] UPCB SPE Notes [Member] UPCB Finance IV Dollar Notes [Member] UPCB Finance IV Dollar Notes [Member] UPCB Finance IV Dollar Notes [Member] UPCB Finance IV Euro Notes [Member] UPCB Finance IV Euro Notes [Member] UPCB Finance IV Euro Notes [Member] UPCB Finance VII Euro Notes [Member] UPCB Finance VII Euro Notes [Member] UPCB Finance VII Euro Notes [Member] UPC Facility AO [Member] UPC Facility AO [Member] UPC Facility AO [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Axis] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period [Domain] 2020 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Three [Member] 2021 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Four [Member] 2022 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Five [Member] 2023 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Six [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Six [Member] 2024 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Seven [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Seven [Member] 2025 and thereafter Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Eight [Member] Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Eight [Member] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt [Axis] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Extinguishment of Debt, Type [Domain] Line of Credit [Member] Line of Credit [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Stated interest rate of debt Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Original issue amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Outstanding principal amount Long-term Debt, Gross Estimated fair value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Carrying value Long-term Debt Percentage of principal amount redeemed Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Redeemed Additional basis points used to determine redemption premium Debt Instrument, Additional Basis Points on Discount Rate Used to Calculate Redemption Premium Additional basis points on discount rate used to calculate redemption premium on debt instrument. Redemption price Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage Extinguishment of debt Extinguishment of Debt, Amount Losses (gains) on debt modification and extinguishment, net Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Payment for debt redemption premium Payments For Debt Redemption Premium Payments For Debt Redemption Premium Write off of deferred financing costs Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost SCHEDULE I (Parent Company Information) Condensed Financial Information of Parent Company Only Disclosure [Text Block] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Medium-term Notes [Member] Medium-term Notes [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] Telenet [Member] Telenet [Member] Telenet [Member] Telenet SPE Notes [Member] Telenet SPE Notes [Member] Telenet SPE Notes [Member] Telenet Finance V Notes [Member] Telenet Finance V Notes [Member] Telenet Finance V Notes [Member] Telenet Finance VI Notes [Member] Telenet Finance VI Notes [Member] Telenet Finance VI Notes [Member] 2018 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period One [Member] 2019 Debt Instrument, Redemption, Period Two [Member] 2024 and thereafter Segment Reporting, Measurement Disclosures [Abstract] Principal Transaction Revenue [Table] Principal Transaction Revenue [Table] Principal Transaction Revenue, Description of Reporting Category [Axis] Principal Transaction Revenue, Description of Reporting Category [Axis] Name of Reporting Category [Domain] Name of Reporting Category [Domain] Cable Video Subscription [Member] Cable Video Subscription [Member] Cable Video Subscription [Member] Cable Broadband Internet Subscription [Member] Cable Broadband Internet Subscription [Member] Cable Broadband Internet Subscription [Member] Cable Fixed-line Telephony Subscription [Member] Cable Fixed-line Telephony Subscription [Member] Cable Fixed-line Telephony Subscription [Member] Cable Subscription [Member] Cable Subscription [Member] Cable Subscription [Member] Cable Non-Subscription [Member] Cable Non-Subscription [Member] Cable Non-Subscription [Member] Cable [Member] Cable [Member] Cable [Member] Mobile Subscription [Member] Mobile Subscription [Member] Mobile Subscription [Member] Mobile Non-Subscription [Member] Mobile Non-Subscription [Member] Mobile Non-Subscription [Member] Mobile Residential [Member] Mobile Residential [Member] Mobile Residential [Member] Residential [Member] Residential [Member] Residential [Member] Business to Business Subscription [Member] Business to Business Subscription [Member] Business to Business Subscription [Member] Business to Business Non-Subscription [Member] Business to Business Non-Subscription [Member] Business to Business Non-Subscription [Member] Business to Business [Member] Business to Business [Member] Business to Business [Member] Other [Member] Other Category [Member] Other Category [Member] Principal Transaction Revenue [Line Items] Revenue Revenues Interest Rate Cap [Member] Interest Rate Cap [Member] Interest Rate Collar [Member] Interest Rate Collar [Member] Interest Rate Collar Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] Cross Currency Interest Rate Contract [Member] ITV Collar [Member] ITV Collar [Member] ITV Collar [Member] Sumitomo Collar [Member] Sumitomo Collar [Member] Relating to the Sumitomo Collar Lionsgate Forward [Member] Lionsgate Forward [Member] Lionsgate Forward [Member] Other Equity Related Derivative Instrument [Member] Other Equity Related Derivative Instrument [Member] Other Equity Related Derivative Instrument [Member] Equity-related derivative instruments [Member] Equity Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Other Contract [Member] Other Contract [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 [Member] UPC Austria [Member] UPC Austria [Member] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Axis] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Name [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Axis] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group Classification [Domain] Disposal Group, Held-for-sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] Disposal Group, Held-for-sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [Member] Disposal Group, Disposed of by Sale, Not Discontinued Operations [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] Consideration for disposal Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Consideration Term of transitional services Disposal Group, Term of Transitional Services Disposal Group, Term of Transitional Services Term of brand transitional period Disposal Group, Term of Brand Transitional Period Disposal Group, Term of Brand Transitional Period 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 Other long-term liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities Net loss Income (Loss) from Individually Significant Component Disposed of or Held-for-sale, Excluding Discontinued Operations, Attributable to Parent, before Income Tax Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Unrecognized tax benefits, beginning balance Unrecognized Tax Benefits Additions for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Foreign currency translation Unrecognized Tax Benefits Resulting From Foreign Currency Translation Unrecognized tax benefits resulting from foreign currency translation. Additions based on tax positions related to the current year Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Current Period Tax Positions Settlements with tax authorities Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Lapse of statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Effects of business acquisitions Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Acquisition Unrecognized tax benefits, ending balance Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] U.K. / Ireland [Member] U.K. / Ireland [Member] U.K. / Ireland [Member] Belgium [Member] BELGIUM Germany [Member] GERMANY Switzerland / Austria [Member] Switzerland / Austria [Member] Switzerland / Austria [Member] Central and Eastern Europe [Member] Central and Eastern Europe [Member] Central and Eastern Europe [Member] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Axis] Operating Activities [Domain] Operating Activities [Domain] Continuing Operations [Member] Continuing Operations [Member] Discontinued Operations [Member] Discontinued Operations [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Long-lived assets Long-Lived Assets Total assets Assets Total assets Segment Reporting Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Options Employee Stock Option [Member] SARs and PSARs SARs and PSARs [Member] SARs and PSARs [Member] SARs Stock Appreciation Rights (SARs) [Member] Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual [Axis] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Former Employees [Member] Former Employees [Member] Former Employees [Member] Number of shares Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Options outstanding at beginning of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Options granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Net of Forfeitures Options expired, cancelled or forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Options exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Impact of the Split-off Transaction (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Impact of Split-off Transaction Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Impact of Split-off Transaction Options outstanding at end of period (in shares) Options exercisable and end of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Weighted average exercise price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Options outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options granted (in dollars per shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options expired, cancelled or forfeited (in dollars per shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Impact of the Split-off Transaction (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Impact of Split-off Transaction, Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Impact of Split-off Transaction, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options outstanding at end of period (in dollars per shares) Options exercisable at end of period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Options outstanding at end of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Options exercisable at end of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value Aggregate intrinsic value [Abstract] Aggregate intrinsic value Options outstanding at end of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Options exercisable at end of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Debt Disclosure [Abstract] Virgin Media [Member] Virgin Media [Member] Virgin Media [Member] Virgin Media Secured Finance [Member] Virgin Media Secured Finance [Member] Virgin Media Secured Finance [Member] Long-term Debt [Member] Long-term Debt [Member] Senior Notes [Member] Senior Notes [Member] April 2021 VM Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] April 2021 VM Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] April 2021 VM Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2021 VM Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2021 VM Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2021 VM Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2025 VM 6.0% Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2025 VM 6.0% Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2025 VM 6.0% Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] VM Credit Facility J [Member] VM Credit Facility J [Member] VM Credit Facility J [Member] VM Credit Facility E [Member] VM Credit Facility E [Member] VM Credit Facility E [Member] VM Credit Facility I [Member] VM Credit Facility I [Member] VM Credit Facility I [Member] Gain (loss) on debt modification and extinguishment, net Write-off of unamortized debt discount and deferred financing cost Write-off of Unamortized Debt Discount and Deferred Financing Cost Write-off of Unamortized Debt Discount and Deferred Financing Cost Write-off of unamortized debt discount (premium) Write-off of Unamortized Debt Discount (Premium) Write-off of Unamortized Debt Discount (Premium) Third-party debt modification costs Third-Party Debt Modification Costs Third-Party Debt Modification Costs Business Combinations [Abstract] 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] Multimedia [Member] Multimedia [Member] Multimedia [Member] SFR BeLux [Member] SFR BeLux [Member] SFR BeLux [Member] BASE [Member] BASE [Member] BASE [Member] CWC [Member] CWC [Member] CWC [Member] UPC Polska SP Z.o.o [Member] UPC Polska SP Z.o.o [Member] UPC Polska SP Z.o.o [Member] Viking Co NV [Member] Viking Co NV [Member] Viking Co NV [Member] Cable & Wireless Communications Limited (CWC) [Member] Cable & Wireless Communications Limited (CWC) [Member] Cable & Wireless Communications Limited (CWC) [Member] 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] Mobile Spectrum [Member] Mobile Spectrum [Member] Mobile Spectrum [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Customer Relationships [Member] Trademarks [Member] Trademarks [Member] Liberty Global Group [Member] Liberty Global Group [Member] Liberty Global Group [Member] LiLAC Group [Member] LiLAC Group [Member] LiLAC Group [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Cost of acquired entity Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Committed facilities to fund transaction costs Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Ownership percentage, noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Weighted average useful life of acquired intangible assets Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life Direct acquisition costs Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Business acquisition consideration issued (in shares) Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Special dividend issuable at closing (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Special Dividend Issuable at Closing Business Acquisition, Special Dividend Issuable at Closing Share price (in dollar/euro per share) Share Price Inter-group interest distributed (in shares) Business Acquisition, Inter-Group Interest Distributed Business Acquisition, Inter-Group Interest Distributed Income Taxes [Table] Income Taxes [Table] Income Tax Authority, Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority, Name [Axis] Income Tax Authority, Name [Domain] Income Tax Authority, Name [Domain] Tax and Customs Administration, Netherlands [Member] Tax and Customs Administration, Netherlands [Member] Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] Internal Revenue Service (IRS) [Member] Administration of the Treasury, Belgium [Member] Administration of the Treasury, Belgium [Member] Swiss Federal Tax Administration (FTA) [Member] Swiss Federal Tax Administration (FTA) [Member] Federal Ministry of Finance, Germany [Member] Federal Ministry of Finance, Germany [Member] Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) [Member] Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) [Member] Other Income Tax Authority [Member] Other Income Tax Authority [Member] Other Income Tax Authority [Member] Income Taxes [Line Items] [Line Items] for Income Taxes [Table] Current Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Current Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Current Current Other Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Other Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Other Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Other Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Other Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Other Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Current Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total income tax benefit (expense) 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] Assets Held under Capital Leases Assets Held under Capital Leases [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Depreciation expense Depreciation, Nonproduction Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Non-cash increases to PP&E related to vendor financing arrangements 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 Assets acquired under capital leases Capital Lease Obligations Incurred Accumulated goodwill impairment losses Goodwill, Impaired, Accumulated Impairment Loss Amortization of intangible assets Amortization of Intangible Assets Old Liberty Global [Member] Old Liberty Global [Member] Old Liberty Global [Member] Revenue Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders: Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Basic (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Basic and diluted (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Net earnings (loss) Equity [Abstract] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Impact of the LiLAC 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Aggregate market value of borrowed Sumitomo shares Securities Borrowed for which No Value is Paid or Credited Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Schedule of changes in accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of tax effects related to each component of other comprehensive loss, net Schedule Of Tax Effects Related To Each Component Of Other Comprehensive Earnings Loss Schedule summarizing tax effects related to each component of other comprehensive earnings (loss). 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 [Member] Stock Options, SARs and RSUs [Member] Stock Options, SARs and RSUs [Member] Stock Options, SARs, PSARs and RSUs [Member] Stock Options, SARs, PSARs and RSUs [Member] Stock Options, SARs, PSARs and RSUs [Member] Obligations That May Be Settled in Cash or Shares [Member] Obligations That May Be Settled in Cash or Shares [Member] Obligations That May Be Settled in Cash or Shares [Member] 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 Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table] Significant other observable inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Assets - derivative instruments Derivative Asset Investments measured at fair value Equity Method Investments, Fair Value Disclosure Total assets Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities - derivative instruments Derivative Liability Debt Long-term Debt, Fair Value Total liabilities Financial and Nonfinancial Liabilities, Fair Value Disclosure Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Net earnings (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive earnings (loss), net of taxes (note 16): 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 Reclassification adjustments included in net earnings (loss) (note 5) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI, Realized upon Sale or Liquidation, 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) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax 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 Derivative Instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Borrowings Levels Schedule of Borrowings Levels [Table Text Block] Schedule of Borrowings Levels [Table Text Block] Schedule of Capital Lease Obligations Schedule of Capital Lease Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of Capital Lease Obligations [Table Text Block] Schedule of Debt Instrument Redemption Debt Instrument Redemption [Table Text Block] Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities Schedule of Line of Credit Facilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Long-Term Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Maturities of Capital Lease Obligations Schedule of Maturities of Capital Lease Obligations [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the combined aggregate amount of due dates for all capital lease obligations for each of the five years following the date of the latest balance sheet date presented. 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Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Settlements 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 Dispositions Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Sales Additions Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Purchases Foreign currency translation adjustments, dividends and other, net Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers, Net Balance of net assets at December 31, 2017 Schedule of outstanding share-based compensation awards Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of the changes in our share capital Schedule of Stockholders Equity [Table Text Block] Details of share repurchases Class of 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[Abstract] Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Table] Condensed Financial Statements, Captions [Line Items] 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 Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Net [Abstract] Net operating loss and other carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Property and equipment, net Deferred Tax Assets Property And Equipment Net Deferred tax assets property and equipment net. Debt Deferred Tax Assets Debt Deferred tax assets debt. 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Foreign currency translation adjustments Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Pension-related adjustments and other Accumulated Defined Benefit Plans Adjustment Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Other comprehensive loss, pre-tax amount Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Other comprehensive loss, tax benefit (expense) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Other comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive earnings (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Other comprehensive earnings attributable to Liberty Latin America shareholders, pre-tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive earnings attributable to Liberty Latin America shareholders, tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive earnings attributable to Liberty Latin America shareholders, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Total 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 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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 Ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Co-venturer ownership percentage Equity Method Investment, Co-Venturer Ownership Percentage Equity Method Investment, Co-Venturer Ownership Percentage Term to distribute all unrestricted cash Equity Method Investment, Term to Distribute All Unrestricted Cash Equity Method Investment, Term to Distribute All Unrestricted Cash Leverage ratio Equity Method Investment, Leverage Ratio Equity Method Investment, Leverage Ratio 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 Distributions received from affiliates Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Distribution, Return of Capital Continuing and required services term Equity Method Investment, Continuing and Required Services Term Equity Method Investment, Continuing and Required Services Term Due from related parties Due from Related Parties Expected fees for services, 2018 Equity Method Investment, Expected Fees for Services in Year Two Equity Method Investment, Expected Fees for Services in Year Two Expected fees for services, 2019 Equity Method Investment, Expected Fees for Services in Year Three Equity Method Investment, Expected Fees for Services in Year Three Percent of investment owned (less than 5% for Sumitomo and Lionsgate) Investment Owned, Percent of Net Assets Share price (in dollars per share) Investment Acquired, Price Per Share Investment Acquired, Price Per Share Investment owned Investment Owned, at Cost Proceeds from derivative instrument Proceeds from Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities Summary of changes in restructuring liabilities during year Schedule of Restructuring Reserve by Type of Cost [Table Text Block] Counterparty Name 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Facility Z [Member] Telenet Facility AG [Member] Telenet Facility AG [Member] Telenet Facility AG [Member] Virgin Media Collateralized Debt [Member] Virgin Media Collateralized Debt [Member] Virgin Media Collateralized Debt [Member] UnityMedia KabelBW [Member] UnityMedia KabelBW [Member] UnityMedia KabelBW [Member] Telenet Capital Lease PICs Network [Member] Telenet Capital Lease PICs Network [Member] Relating to Telenet Capital Lease PICs Network Senior and Senior Secured Notes [Member] Senior and Senior Secured Notes [Member] Senior and Senior Secured Notes [Member] SPE Notes [Member] SPE Notes [Member] SPE Notes [Member] Secured Debt [Member] Secured Debt [Member] General term of vendor financing arrangements for amounts due General Term of Vendor Financing Arrangements for Amounts Due General Term of Vendor Financing Arrangements for Amounts Due Estimated fair value Term when statutory termination rights are active Term When Statutory Termination Rights Are Active Term When Statutory Termination Rights Are Active Number of associations of municipalities in belgium Number of Associations of Municipalities in Belgium Number of Associations of Municipalities in Belgium Term of lease repayments Term of Lease Repayments Term of Lease Repayments Number of borrowing groups Number of Borrowing Groups Number of Borrowing Groups Mandatory redemption price expressed as percentage of principal amount on senior notes in event that certain assets sold or specific control changed Mandatory Redemption Price Expressed as Percentage of Principal Amount on Senior Notes in Event that Certain Assets Sold or Specific Control Changed Mandatory redemption price expressed as percentage of principal amount on senior notes in event that certain assets sold or specific control changed Redemption term Debt Instrument, Redemption Term Debt Instrument, Redemption Term Redemption price, percentage of principal amount limitation Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Limitation Debt Instrument, Redemption Price, Percentage of Principal Amount Limitation Ownership percentage of SPEs by third parties Ownership Percentage of Special Purpose Financing Entity Ownership Percentage of Special Purpose Financing Entity 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Net carrying amount Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Acquisitions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Additional paid-in capital [Member] Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated deficit [Member] Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Treasury shares, at cost [Member] Treasury Stock [Member] Total Liberty Global shareholders [Member] Parent [Member] Non-controlling interests [Member] Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Accounting change (note 2) Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Balance at January 1, 2017, as adjusted for accounting change Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Adjusted Balance Other comprehensive loss, net of taxes (notes 5 and 16) Impact of the LiLAC Transactions Stockholders' Equity Note, Spinoff Transaction Share-based compensation (note 13) Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Adjustments due to changes in subsidiaries’ equity and other, net (note 12) VodafoneZiggo Holding [Member] VodafoneZiggo Holding [Member] VodafoneZiggo Holding [Member] Vodafone [Member] Vodafone [Member] Vodafone 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2029 VM Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2029 VM Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2029 VM Sterling Senior Secured Notes [Member] Scenario, Forecast [Member] Scenario, Forecast [Member] Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Spinoff [Member] Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Means Other than Sale, Spinoff [Member] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Current assets: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Trade receivables, net Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Derivative instruments (note 7) Derivative Asset, Current Prepaid expenses Prepaid Expense, Current Current assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Current Other current assets: Other Assets, Current [Abstract] Other Assets, Current [Abstract] Third-party Due from Related Parties, Current Related-party (note 6) Other Assets, Related Parties, Current Other Assets, Related Parties, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Investments and related note receivables (including $2,315.3 million and $2,057.2 million, respectively, measured at fair value on a recurring basis) (note 6) Long-term Investments Property and equipment, net (note 9) Goodwill (note 9) Intangible assets subject to amortization, net (note 9) Deferred tax assets (note 11) Long-term assets Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets, Noncurrent Other assets, net (notes 7, 9 and 11) Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets LIABILITIES AND EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Current liabilities: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Deferred revenue and advance payments from subscribers and others Deferred Revenue, Current Current portion of debt and capital lease obligations (note 10) Debt, Current Accrued capital expenditures Accrued Capital Expenditures, Current Accrued Capital Expenditures, Current Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Accrued income taxes Accrued Income Taxes, Current Current liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Current Other accrued and current liabilities (notes 7 and 14) Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt and capital lease obligations (note 10) Long-term liabilities Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities (notes 7, 11, 14 and 15) Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Total liabilities Liabilities Commitments and contingencies (notes 4, 7, 10, 11, 15 and 17) Commitments and Contingencies Equity (note 12): Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Liberty Global shareholders: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive earnings (loss), 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 Noncontrolling interests Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Total equity Total liabilities and equity Liabilities and Equity Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies [Table] Accounting Policies [Line Items] [Line Items] for Accounting Policies [Table] Aggregate allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Asset retirement obligation Asset Retirement Obligation Earnings (loss) from continuing operations Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings from continuing operations attributable to noncontrolling interests Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Numerator: Numerator [Abstract] Numerator [Abstract] Net earnings attributable to holders of Liberty Global Shares (basic EPS computation) (in millions) Interest expense on Virgin Media’s 6.50% convertible senior notes Interest on Convertible Debt, Net of Tax Net earnings attributable to holders of Liberty Global Shares (diluted EPS computation) (in millions) Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent, Diluted Denominator: Denominator [Abstract] Denominator [Abstract] Weighted average ordinary shares (basic EPS computation) (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Incremental shares attributable to the assumed exercise and vesting of share incentive awards (treasury stock method) (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Virgin Media’s 6.50% convertible senior notes (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Conversion of Debt Securities Weighted average ordinary shares (diluted EPS computation) (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Weighted average shares outstanding - basic and diluted (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted 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 Contract Termination and Other [Member] Contract Termination and Other [Member] Contract termination Contract Termination [Member] Mobile network migration Other Restructuring [Member] Restructuring Cost and Reserve [Line Items] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring Reserve [Roll Forward] Restructuring liability at beginning of year Restructuring Reserve Restructuring charges Restructuring Charges Cash paid Payments for Restructuring BASE liabilities at acquisition date Restructuring Reserve, Increase (Decrease) from Acquisition Restructuring Reserve, Increase (Decrease) from Acquisition Disposal Restructuring Reserve, Decrease from Disposal Restructuring Reserve, Decrease from Disposal Foreign currency translation adjustments and other Restructuring Reserve, Foreign Currency Translation Gain (Loss) Restructuring liability at end of year Current portion Restructuring Reserve, Current Noncurrent portion Restructuring Reserve, Noncurrent Total Expected restructuring costs Restructuring and Related Cost, Expected Cost Cash and cash equivalents Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Cash and Cash Equivalents Current restricted cash Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Restricted Cash, Current Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Restricted Cash, Current Intangible assets subject to amortization, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Intangible Assets, Noncurrent 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 Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Defined Benefit Plans Disclosures [Table] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Axis] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Retirement Plan Type [Domain] Pension Plan [Member] Pension Plan [Member] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Defined Benefit Plan Disclosure [Line Items] Fair value of plan assets Defined Benefit Plan, Fair Value of Plan Assets Projected benefit obligation Defined Benefit Plan, Benefit Obligation Net asset (liability) Defined Benefit Plan, Funded (Unfunded) Status of Plan Net periodic pension cost Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit) Service cost Defined Benefit Plan, Service Cost Curtailment gain Defined Benefit Plan, Net Periodic Benefit Cost (Credit), Gain (Loss) Due to Curtailment Contributions expected in next fiscal year Defined Benefit Plan, Expected Future Employer Contributions, Next Fiscal Year Contributions by employer Defined Benefit Plan, Plan Assets, Contributions by Employer Schedule of Investments by Accounting Method Schedule of Investments by Accounting Method [Table Text Block] Schedule of Investments by Accounting Method [Table Text Block] Summarized Financial Condition Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Axis] Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity [Axis] Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Type [Domain] Option Indexed to Issuer's Equity, Type [Domain] Call Option [Member] Call Option [Member] PSUs, PGUs, RSUs PSUs, PGUs and RSUs [Member] PSUs, PGUs and RSUs [Member] Share capital authorized, aggregate nominal amount Authorized Share Capital, Aggregate Nominal Amount Authorized Share Capital, Aggregate Nominal Amount Minimum number of classes or series of stock which may be authorized Minimum Number of Classes or Series of Stock Which May Be Authorized Minimum Number of Classes or Series of Stock Which May Be Authorized Number of votes allowed per class of stock (in votes) Number of Votes Allowed Per Class of Stock Number of Votes Allowed Per Class of Stock Number of ordinary shares convertible to certain class of ordinary shares (in shares) Number of Ordinary Shares Convertible to Certain Class of Ordinary Shares Number of Ordinary Shares Convertible to Certain Class of Ordinary Shares Common reserved for issuance (in shares) Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Awards outstanding (in shares) Other than options (in shares) Call options, exercise price (in dollars per share) Investment Options, Exercise Price VM Credit Facilities [Member] VM Credit Facilities [Member] VM Credit Facilities [Member] VM Credit Facility K [Member] VM Credit Facility K [Member] VM Credit Facility K [Member] VM Credit Facility L [Member] VM Credit Facility L [Member] VM Credit Facility L [Member] VM Credit Facility M [Member] VM Credit Facility M [Member] VM Credit Facility M [Member] VM Senior Secured Credit Facilities [Member] VM Senior Secured Credit Facilities [Member] VM Senior Secured Facilities [Member] VM Financing Facility [Member] VM Financing Facility [Member] VM Financing Facility [Member] Borrowings of debt Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt UPC Holding 6.375% Senior Notes [Member] UPC Holding 6.375% Senior Notes [Member] UPC Holding 6.375% Senior Notes [Member] UPC Holding 3.875% Senior Notes [Member] UPC Holding 3.875% Senior Notes [Member] UPC Holding 3.875% Senior Notes [Member] UPC Holding 5.50% Senior Notes [Member] UPC Holding 5.50% Senior Notes [Member] UPC Holding 5.50% Senior Notes [Member] 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] 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 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 Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Total debt maturities Long-term Debt, Gross Contractual Maturities Long-term Debt, Gross Contractual Maturities Total debt Long-term Debt Contractual Maturities Long-term Debt Contractual Maturities Total carrying amount of debt Current portion Long-term Debt, Current Maturities Noncurrent portion Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Options, SARs and PSARs Options, SARs and PSARs [Member] Options, SARs and PSARs [Member] PSUs Performance Share Units (PSUs) [Member] Performance Share Units (PSUs) [Member] Assumptions used to estimate fair value of options, SARs and PSARs granted: Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions and Methodology [Abstract] Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected life Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Weighted average grant-date fair value per share of awards granted, options (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted average grant-date fair value per share of awards granted, other than options (in dollars per share) Total intrinsic value of awards exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Cash received from exercise of options Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Income tax benefit related to share-based compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Compensation Expense Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Consumer and Business-to-Business Communication Services [Member] Consumer and Business-to-Business Communication Services [Member] Consumer and Business-to-Business Communication Services [Member] Number of operating segments Number of Operating Segments Number of countries in which entity provides services Number of Countries in which Entity Operates 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 Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Table] Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Table] Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Deferred Tax Asset [Domain] Other Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Other Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Other Deferred Tax Asset [Member] Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items] Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible [Line Items] Statutory income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Change in valuation allowances Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount Amount on which future tax deductions can be claimed Amount on Which Future Tax Deductions Can Be Claimed Amount on Which Future Tax Deductions Can Be Claimed Maximum percent of capital allowances claimed allowance Maximum Percent of Capital Allowances Claimed Allowance Maximum Percent of Capital Allowances Claimed Allowance Deferred tax liability, temporary difference Undistributed Earnings of Foreign Subsidiaries Unrecognized tax benefits - favorable impact on effective income tax rate if ultimately recognized, net of valuation allowances Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Reductions to our unrecognized tax benefits reasonably possible Decrease in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible Income tax penalties and interest expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Expense Accrued interest and penalties on tax related items Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued 2025 UM Senior Notes [Member] 2025 UM Senior Notes [Member] 2025 UM Senior Notes [Member] 2027 UM Senior Notes [Member] 2027 UM Senior Notes [Member] 2027 UM Senior Notes [Member] January 2023 UM Dollar Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2023 UM Dollar Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2023 UM Dollar Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2023 5.75% UM Euro Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2023 5.75% UM Euro Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2023 5.75% UM Euro Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2023 5.125% UM Euro Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2023 5.125% UM Euro Senior Secured Notes [Member] January 2023 5.125% UM Euro Senior Secured Notes [Member] April 2023 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] April 2023 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] April 2023 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2025 UM Euro Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2025 UM Euro Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2025 UM Euro Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2025 UM Dollar Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2025 UM Dollar Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2025 UM Dollar Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2026 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2026 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2026 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2027 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2027 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2027 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2029 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2029 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] 2029 UM Senior Secured Notes [Member] Income Statement [Abstract] Revenue (notes 6 and 18) 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 Services Programming and other direct costs of services Selling, general and administrative (SG&A) (note 13) Impairment, restructuring and other operating items, net (notes 4, 14 and 15) Restructuring, Settlement and Impairment Provisions Operating costs and expenses Costs and Expenses Interest expense Interest Expense Realized and unrealized gains (losses) on derivative instruments, net (note 7) Gain (Loss) on Derivative Instruments, Net, Pretax Realized and unrealized gains (losses) due to changes in fair values of certain investments and debt, net (notes 6, 8 and 10) 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 10) Gains (Losses) on Restructuring of Debt Share of losses of affiliates, net (note 6) Earnings (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes Income tax benefit (expense) (note 11) Earnings (loss) from continuing operations Earnings (loss) from discontinued operations, net of taxes (note 5) Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings (loss) Net earnings attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Basic earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per share (notes 1 and 3): Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Continuing operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Basic Share Diluted earnings (loss) from continuing operations attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per share (notes 1 and 3): Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Continuing operations (in dollars per share) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Per Diluted Share New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-09 [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Accounting change Total operating activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Operating Activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Operating Activities Total investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Derivative Instrument, Investing Activities Total 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 Investments Investment Holdings [Text Block] Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Pro Forma Information for Significant Acquisitions Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Increase (decrease) to borrowing costs Impact of Derivative Instruments on Borrowing Costs, Percent Increase (Decrease) Impact of Derivative Instruments on Borrowing Costs, Percent Increase (Decrease) Computed “expected” tax benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, 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 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 International rate differences: Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, International Rate Differences, Amount [Abstract] Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, International Rate Differences, Amount [Abstract] 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 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 Non-deductible or non-taxable interest and other expenses: 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 Basis and other differences in the treatment of items associated with investments in subsidiaries and affiliates (b): 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 Recognition of previously unrecognized tax benefits Income Tax Reconciliation, Previously Unrecognized Tax Benefits Income Tax Reconciliation, Previously Unrecognized Tax Benefits Tax benefit associated with technologies innovation Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Research, Amount Enacted tax law and rate changes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount Tax effect of intercompany financing Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Effect of Intercompany Financing Income Tax Reconciliation, Tax Effect of Intercompany Financing Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount Cross-Currency Swap 1 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 1 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 1 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 2 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 2 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 2 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 3 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 3 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 3 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 4 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 4 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 4 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 5 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 5 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 5 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 6 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 6 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 6 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 7 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 7 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 7 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 8 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 8 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 8 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 9 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 9 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 9 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 10 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 10 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 10 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 11 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 11 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 11 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 12 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 12 [Member] Cross-Currency Swap 12 [Member] 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] Total segment 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 Earnings (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. Unrecorded Purchase Obligation Unrecorded Unconditional Purchase Obligations Disclosure [Table Text Block] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] SCHEDULE II VALUATION AND QUALIFYING ACCOUNTS Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Balance at beginning of period Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Additions to costs and expenses Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Charges to Cost and Expense Acquisitions Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Reserves of Businesses Acquired VodafoneZiggo JV Transaction Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Adjustments for Joint Venture Transactions Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Adjustments for Joint Venture Transactions Reclassification to assets held for sale Valuation Allowances And Reserves Reclassified To Discontinued Operations Valuation Allowances And Reserves Reclassified To Discontinued Operations. Deductions or write-offs Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Foreign currency translation adjustments Valuation Allowances And Reserves Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Valuation Allowances And Reserves Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments Balance at end of period 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 Services agreement term Services Agreement Term Services Agreement Term Services agreement renewal term Services Agreement Renewal Term Services Agreement Renewal Term Trade receivables, net Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Accounts, Notes and Loans Receivable, Net Other current assets Total current assets Other assets 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 expense Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Discontinued Operation Net (earnings) loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders, net of taxes, attributable to holders of: Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Basic and diluted earnings (loss) attributable to Liberty Global shareholders per share: Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax, Per Basic and Diluted 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