Situation exacerbated by protestors hindering journalist and lack of police intervention

Location: Germany, Seligenthal
Date: February 15, 2024

Women Press Freedom strongly condemns the verbal abuse and insults directed at Bloomberg reporter Petra Sorge and reporters from several outlets, as they sought to report on Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck's visit to a chocolate factory in Seligenthal. The reprehensible behavior of a group of approximately 50 protestors, comprising farmers and citizens, targeting journalists with derogatory remarks, including labeling them as "liars," undermines press freedom and threatens the safety of journalists fulfilling their essential roles. We call for accountability and denounce any form of harassment against media professionals carrying out their duties with integrity and dedication.

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"There's a right to protest, and even blocking a road can be within the bounds of acceptable demonstration. But what transpired here goes far beyond what's acceptable, particularly the aggressive tone that permeated the event," says Bloomberg reporter Petra Sorge in an interview with Women Press Freedom. The incident at the Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action Robert Habeck's visits through several eastern states and Bavaria, where protestors targeted journalists, highlights the growing hostility against journalists in Germany.

The trip, focused on addressing issues of staff shortages, labor shortages, and energy issues, was set against the backdrop of upcoming state elections and a surge in support for right-wing parties.

The Green Party and Minister Habeck were the initial targets of the protest. However, journalists, seen as part of the delegation, began to face aggression and hostility. They were labeled as "liars" and were targeted with derogatory terms.

“During the protest, police were primarily focused on securing the minister, leaving journalists vulnerable,” adds Sorge. 

A demonstrator approached a camera colleague from the MDR news outlet in a highly aggressive manner, attempting to extinguish his lit cigarette on the camera lens.

N-TV reporters, including Sebastian Huld, characterized the situation as a "massive threatening environment" where they encountered aggression. One alarming incident involved a driver accelerating toward the journalists before suddenly halting and parking just 50 meters away as onlookers cheered.

In an attempt to avoid a potentially violent clash, journalists decided to retreat. Surprisingly, a police press release about the protests failed to mention that journalists were targeted.

Germany is grappling with increasing frustration due to inflation, high energy costs, and increasing demands for stricter climate regulations. Germany's support for Ukraine amidst the conflict is also causing a rift within German society, with opposing views on peace negotiations and weapon supply.

"We are seen as part of the system. People feel that their own problems or issues aren't looked at. Their worldview gets reinforced through social media while they don't get exposed to other facts." continues Sorge. 

The German Journalists Association (DJV) publicly denounced the attacks on reporters, condemning the escalating protests that clearly encroach on press freedom.

These incidents highlight the growing challenges faced by journalists in Germany as they navigate through hostile environments while trying to provide fair and accurate reporting. As Germany grapples with political polarization and social unrest, the role of journalists and the challenges they face become all the more significant.

Women Press Freedom unreservedly backs Petra Sorge and other journalists who have faced animosity and obstacles from protestors. We denounce these aggressive and intimidating actions directed toward media professionals who are simply carrying out their duties in keeping the public updated. We express worry over the police forces' lack of intervention in ensuring the journalists' safety. We call for a comprehensive inquiry into the conditions surrounding this situation and responsibility for those involved. The press should be able to report on matters of public interest without impediments or fears of being threatened.

Women Press Freedom is an initiative by The Coalition For Women In Journalism

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.

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