On 21 November, Dahrendorf Forum and ZDF organized a workshop at the Hertie School of Governance entitled “Standing firm in times of populism – Journalism between attitude and independence”. 15 journalists from Europe and North America discussed challenges they face in their work given the increased presence of populist political actors.
The event was chaired by Peter Frey (editor-in-chief of ZDF) and Andrea Römmele (Co-Chair of the Dahrendorf Working Group 2) and was followed by a joint dinner. Manager Gesa-Stefanie Brincker and Research Associate Marie Wachinger also attended the event.
The discussion provided useful insights into the similarities and differences journalists face in their countries. While some countries already have decades of experience with populist politicians, others are struggling to accommodate these new actors in the rapidly changing media environment.
The workshop will be followed by a second event on 7 February in which strategies and best practices to cope with populist discourse will be discussed.