"Befinden uns in relativ faktenloser Welt" - Lokaljournalismus in Sachsen-Anhalt
Summary
Markus Völk, editor of the Altmarktzeitung in Saxony-Anhalt, discusses the critical role of local journalism in reaching citizens disconnected from mainstream media. He highlights the shrinking diversity of local newspapers and the shift toward online reach to engage younger audiences. Völk addresses the challenges of reporting in a polarized environment where fact-based analysis often triggers hostile reactions from readers. The conversation also covers the increasing personal threats and harassment faced by journalists, reflecting a broader decline in respect for press freedom.
Topics discussed
Introduction: Media focus on Saxony-Anhalt election
Markus Völk's role and local media relevance
Local papers as the last reach for rural audiences
Shrinking diversity in the local newspaper market
Circulation loss vs. online growth strategy
Online reach and social media audience size
The challenge of reaching younger demographics
Why young audiences are hard to capture locally
Success in engaging younger readers online
Comparison with national media and AfD coverage
Managing high-volume negative social media feedback
Local focus beyond just the AfD narrative
High AfD presence in local municipal politics
Contextualizing political rhetoric for readers
The value of analysis in a fact-free world
Audience preference for confirmation over facts
Escalating tensions and journalist safety concerns
Internal strategies for handling hostile events
Impact on press freedom and personal attacks
Rising hostility and threats against journalists
Conclusion: Reporting in a low-respect environment
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