The state of press liberty: questioning the bounds of journalistic independence
In the world of German broadcasting, a significant event has taken place that raises concerns about the importance of media diversity and the role of moderators. Julia Ruhs, a journalist and moderator, was dismissed from the NDR after only three pilot episodes of her show "Klar".
Ruhs' show, which aimed to present a paragon of objectivity compared to the past moderations of Gerhard Loewenthal, was met with internal resistance from colleagues who criticized the program's journalistic standards and accused it of lacking balance. This led to protests by nearly 250 NDR employees.
Loewenthal, a ZDF magazine host who hosted the show for 18 years until 1987, was a controversial figure who fought against Willy Brandt's Ostpolitik and saw communist conspiracies everywhere. His moderations showed less intent than in the past, but they were part of a diverse media landscape in an open society.
The contrast between Loewenthal's and Ruhs' moderations highlights the diversity of media in an open society, which includes varying levels of intent in moderations. Ruhs' show did not contain any groundbreaking new insights, but it presented itself as a paragon of objectivity compared to Loewenthal's moderations.
The dismissal of Ruhs is not an isolated incident. Emerging authoritarian orders worldwide cannot tolerate media diversity and fight against it. The cancelation of Jimmy Kimmel's talk show in the USA is a similar example of this trend.
Daniel Günther, the Schleswig-Holstein Minister-President, criticized the dismissal of Julia Ruhs as an "extremely bad signal". He emphasized the importance of solidarity for Ruhs, even if her moderations are annoying. Those who cannot understand solidarity should view it as a matter of civic decency.
Peter Wensierski, an expert with extensive experience dealing with totalitarian orders, warns that the contemptuous tactics used by propagandists of authoritarian orders indicate a threat to society. The dismissal of Ruhs is a reminder of the importance of media diversity and the need to protect it.
In this light, it is important to remember that while Dunja Hayali's moderations can be annoying, she deserves solidarity. The diversity of media in an open society is crucial for a healthy democracy, and the dismissal of Ruhs is a step in the wrong direction.
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