Visiting Germany’s DW & ZDF
Spent an incredible week visiting German public service media with the Western Balkan public service broadcasters. During the first couple of days we immersed ourselves in the world of AI in journalism, workflows, and audience engagement at the Deutsche Welle HQ in Bonn. Balkan broadcasters explored new formats, content development, and navigated the ever-changing landscape of social media, metrics, and analytics, with special focus on youth.
Second part of the stay included an eye-opening visit to ZDF in Mainz. With the highest market share of about 14.5 percent, die Zweite is Germany’s most-watched TV channel and truly in a league of its own; from the incredible people to the top-notch production facilities and campus (giving off major pre-Apple Apple vibes).
Our time here was all about exploring the fast-paced world of digital media, how to recruit and train the best media professionals, intricacies of creating captivating children’s programs, prime time news. Western Balkan broadcasters also delved into the importance of creating user-centric format development when leaping from traditional to streaming media
✅ Key takeaways from our ZDF discussions:
🔑 Journalists are unwavering in their commitment to upholding ethics, even in the face of n economic pressures.
🔑 Listening to our youngest audiences is crucial – empowering them to understand the world around them is key.
🔑 More challenges, more platforms, more opportunities.
🔑 We nurture democracies by creating programs where diverse opinions can be heard and civilized discourse held.
I cannot wait to see how our Western Balkan media pros put their newfound knowledge and innovation skills into action.
Personally, I am grateful to connect with journalists and witness firsthand how major global media outlets are embracing the AI evolution and adapting to the post-pandemic era. But amidst all the tech talk, one thing remains clear: the core principles of journalism—truth, accuracy, independence, fairness, balance, and impartiality—stand strong, no matter the advancements or shifts in our work environment.Shoutout to DW Akademie for their generosity in sharing their wisdom and insights. Big thanks to the fantastic #ZDF staff for their unique insights.
🌍 Let’s shape the future of media together! 💡
Photos by Phillip Boll, DW News
