The state of press liberty: Exploring media freedom’s current situation
In a recent development, Julia Ruhs, a German TV moderator, has been dismissed by the NDR after internal criticism regarding her moderation of the show "Klar." The dismissal, which was publicly announced around September 2025, has sparked controversy and raised concerns about media diversity.
Julia Ruhs' show did not contain any groundbreaking new insights about migration, but it did feature an example of a migrant family that has been living in Germany for ten years. The patriarch of the family, who has lived with three wives and thirteen children, six of whom are in pre-trial detention or prison, has a residence permit.
The dismissal of Julia Ruhs is part of a global trend, with Jimmy Kimmel's talk show being canceled in the USA. This trend, along with the emergence of cancellations of controversial talk shows, is a cause for concern as it appears to be a threat to media diversity.
The contemptuous manner in which these dismissals are being operated is a particular concern. Solidarity towards Julia Ruhs is a matter of civil decency, and her dismissal is criticized as an "extremely bad signal" by Schleswig-Holstein's Minister-President Daniel Günther.
Dunja Hayali, another German TV moderator, has also faced criticism for her moderations, which, while less pronounced, are noticeable in her programs. Despite this, solidarity towards Dunja Hayali is deserved, as fighting against media diversity, including her moderations, poses a significant threat to society.
It is important to note that the emergence of new authoritarian orders worldwide is hostile to media diversity. This hostility is exemplified by the authoritarian orders that have fought against media diversity, including Dunja Hayali's moderations.
Peter Wensierski, who has extensive experience dealing with totalitarian orders, warns of the contemptuous manner in which these authoritarian orders operate. He emphasizes that this contemptuous manner is a threat to society, and that media diversity is a crucial aspect of a healthy and functioning democracy.
Gerhard Loewenthal, a ZDF Magazine host who survived the Sachsenhausen concentration camp and hosted the program for 18 years until 1987, was known for his polemical stance against Willy Brandt's Ostpolitik and suspected communist conspiracies. Despite this, his work served as a testament to the importance of media diversity, and his legacy continues to inspire journalists today.
In conclusion, the dismissal of Julia Ruhs and the threat to media diversity is a matter of great concern. It is crucial that we stand up for media diversity and ensure that journalists are able to work freely and without fear of reprisal. The legacy of Gerhard Loewenthal serves as a reminder of the importance of media diversity, and we must strive to uphold this value in our own time.
