A group of exiled journalists based in Europe has issued an open letter to the German government, calling for stronger political and financial commitments to protect independent journalism and counter disinformation.
Since 2022, Germany has become a refuge for many journalists forced to flee repression in countries such as Russia, Iran, Belarus, and Afghanistan. Thanks to humanitarian visas, emergency funds, and grants, many have been able to rebuild their newsrooms in exile. In their letter, the journalists express gratitude for this support—but also warn that without renewed investment and legal protection, many of these media outlets are at risk of disappearing.
The letter highlights that exiled media play a crucial role in monitoring disinformation, investigating war crimes, and amplifying voices silenced by authoritarian regimes. However, as global media face financial instability, exiled journalists—cut off from traditional income sources like advertising or reader donations—depend entirely on short-term grants.
To prevent further collapse, the signatories urge the German government and parliament to:
- Expand funding for independent and exiled media, including institutional support through the Foreign Office and cultural programmes.
- Strengthen counter-disinformation efforts by promoting media literacy and cross-border investigations.
- Keep Germany a safe haven for journalists at risk by reintroducing simplified humanitarian visa procedures.
- Defend press freedom globally through diplomatic advocacy and protection from transnational repression.
- Regulate tech monopolies to ensure fair visibility for independent outlets and prevent algorithmic discrimination.
The Network of Exiled Media Outlets (NEMO) supports this initiative and stands in solidarity with its demands. Several NEMO representatives have signed the open letter, reaffirming the network’s commitment to strengthening protection, visibility, and long-term sustainability for exiled media.
The journalists emphasize that Germany’s role as a refuge for media under threat is now more vital than ever. Supporting exiled journalism, they argue, is not only an act of solidarity, it is an essential defense against global disinformation and propaganda.