Christina on Truth in Professional Journalism

"What is true?" is the theme of this year’s Freedom of Expression Week (May 3–10, 2026). This nationwide campaign week explores the tension between facts, opinions, and truthfulness. The role of the media is also up for discussion.

Against this backdrop, we asked our colleague and editor-in-chief Christina how the team at our trade magazine Börsenblatt navigates this tension.

• How important is truth in the trade media?
  We conduct thorough research and write as precisely and verifiably as possible—with the result that we provide reliable facts. These can serve as a basis for our readers’ decision-making or help them make sense of facts and developments. However, it is not always easy to obtain detailed information from the industry, because some companies are very secretive or tightly control their communications.
• How do you find out what is really true?
  We get closer to the truth by systematically verifying information. This starts with the sources. We use primary and secondary sources, such as press releases, company figures, studies, or market research results. People in our networks whom we can interview confidentially also play an important role. In addition, we solicit statements or speak with those affected to get a clear picture.
• Which opinions do you give a platform?
  We publish opinions that contribute to professional debate—not to sensationalism. We allow for a broad spectrum of opinions based on facts, not knee-jerk reactions. Our limits lie where statements are demonstrably false, defamatory, or discriminatory. As a general rule, opinions and comments are clearly labeled as such.
• How do your personal opinions influence your editorial work?
  Our own perspectives and experiences naturally play a role in our day-to-day editorial work. They can influence which topics we consider important, how we approach a topic, or what questions we ask in an interview. That’s why our editorial meetings can sometimes get heated—because, fortunately, different opinions come together
• What responsibilities do you have toward your readers?
  Our readers must be able to rely on us, especially when they make decisions in a professional context based on our information. At its core, this is about trust. It’s also important to reflect the industry in all its diversity and give a voice to a wide range of stakeholders. In this way, we also highlight conflicts of interest within the industry.

PS: Michael Lemling, co-spokesperson for the Freedom of Expression Interest Group (IG) of the German Publishers and Booksellers Association, has compiled a selection of recommended titles that spark discussion and provide inspiration for book displays, store windows, and more. Preview on VLB-TIX

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