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Struggle intensifies within cultural spheres

Public television host Julia Ruhs' exit doesn't necessarily signify a leftist bias in broadcasting, according to author Eberhard Wein. The cultural conflict persists.

The struggle over cultural values intensifies
The struggle over cultural values intensifies

Struggle intensifies within cultural spheres

In the world of German broadcasting, a stir has been caused by the recent parting of ways between NDR (Norddeutscher Rundfunk) and moderator Julia Ruhs. The magazine 'Klar,' which Ruhs moderates, has only aired three episodes.

The dismissal of Ruhs has become a battleground in the culture war between left and right, with almost every politician weighing in on the matter. The CDU chairman in Baden-Württemberg, Manuel Hagel, has spoken out emotionally against the dismissal. Hagel, who was elected as the state chairman of the CDU Baden-Württemberg in November 2023, previously held roles including CDU parliamentary group leader in the state parliament and secretary general of the state CDU.

Ruhs, known for expressing her own opinion, was hired as a moderator because she is conservative. However, the reasons for her dismissal remain somewhat unclear. The NDR has only defensively communicated the reasons, leading to speculation that it may be for reasons of internal peace within the organisation. Some suggest that the dismissal may be used as further proof of the left-green orientation of public broadcasting.

Moderator Hagel has criticized public broadcasting, stating it has a responsibility towards the public. He argues that thorough research, clear presentation, and a clear distinction between opinion and commentary should be the focus of good journalism, and Ruhs' ability to question is seen as a developing asset.

The magazine format that Ruhs moderates does not have a fixed broadcast slot yet. The future of 'Klar' and Ruhs' career in broadcasting remain uncertain, but the controversy surrounding her dismissal has sparked a wider discussion about the role and impartiality of public broadcasting in Germany.

The author, Eberhard Wein, is discussing the dismissal of Ruhs as a moderator, highlighting the complexities and controversies that surround this event. As the debate continues, it is clear that the dismissal of Julia Ruhs will have far-reaching implications for the world of German broadcasting.

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