The German federal government’s funding program for the protection and structural strengthening of journalistic work has launched its second round of applications. The program, supported by a budget of approximately one million euros from the Federal Government Commissioner for Culture and Media, aims to promote projects that foster independent and autonomous journalism. However, it explicitly excludes funding for journalistic content to preserve press freedom and ensure fair journalistic competition.
Claudia Roth, Minister of Culture and Media, highlighted the threats to press freedom and independence faced not only in Germany but also in many parts of the world. She cited examples such as Putin’s propaganda and disinformation machinery, the brutal persecution of journalists in Russia, Iran, and Turkey, and the intimidation faced by media professionals during the “Querdenker” demonstrations. Roth stressed the importance of protecting and strengthening professional quality journalism, which adheres to principles such as accuracy and meticulous research.
Roth expressed concern over the increasing prevalence of manipulated information on social media platforms and underscored the urgent need to protect and support quality journalism as a fundamental pillar of Germany’s democratic society. She stated that a confident and independent journalism sector is essential for upholding democratic values and must be sustainably supported.
The funding program aims to support significant model projects with nationwide impact, addressing various societal groups while bolstering the structures of journalism. Eligible projects may include initiatives that highlight the value and importance of quality journalism for democracy or support exiled journalists in Germany and organizations engaged in fact-checking to combat misinformation more effectively. Projects providing training for security forces on press freedom rights may also be eligible for funding.
The selection of projects for funding will be carried out by an independent expert jury. Detailed guidelines for funding applications are available at www.kulturstaatsministerin.de/Journalismus. Interested parties can submit their applications until September 30, 2023. The funding program aims to contribute to the protection and enhancement of quality journalism in Germany and reaffirms the country’s commitment to press freedom and journalistic integrity.