Deutsche Welle suspends two freelancers over fresh antisemitism allegations
Germany's international broadcaster Deutsche Welle (DW) has suspended two freelance journalists over fresh allegations of antisemitism. The claims, first reported by Bild newspaper, involve social media posts that reportedly promoted anti-Israel sentiment and questioned the country's right to exist.
DW confirmed it would launch an investigation while halting cooperation with both contributors. The broadcaster has faced repeated accusations of antisemitism among staff in recent years.
The two freelancers, both Arab correspondents based in Iraq, are accused of sharing inflammatory content on private social media accounts. One, identified as Amal S., allegedly posted a map erasing Israel, replacing it with a design resembling the Palestinian keffiyeh pattern. She is also said to have called former US President Joe Biden a 'Zionist dog' in a Facebook post on October 7, 2023.
The second freelancer reportedly referred to Islamist terrorists as 'freedom fighters' on Instagram. Both individuals are accused of promoting Israel's destruction and expressing support for Iran. *Bild* claimed the posts included images and comments denying Israel's sovereignty. DW responded by stating it had no prior knowledge of the content in question. The broadcaster stressed that all employees and contributors must adhere to its Code of Conduct, which explicitly recognises Israel's right to exist. In 2023, DW introduced screening measures to detect antisemitic views during the hiring process. These latest allegations follow a pattern of similar incidents at the organisation. DW has repeatedly faced scrutiny over its handling of antisemitism among staff and freelancers.
The two freelancers remain suspended while DW conducts its investigation. The broadcaster has not confirmed whether further disciplinary action will follow. The case adds to ongoing concerns about antisemitism within the organisation and its enforcement of editorial standards.
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