Germany’s Media Regulators Elect New Chairs Amid Digital Transformation
Germany’s media regulators have announced key leadership changes as the industry faces rapid technological shifts. The Directors' Conference of the Media Authorities (DLM) and its related bodies have elected new chairs to navigate an increasingly complex regulatory landscape. The decisions were finalised during meetings in Hamburg, marking a transition in leadership roles.
Dr Thorsten Schmiege, 51, will take over as chairman of the DLM and the Commission on Licensing and Supervision (ZAK) from January 2026. He succeeds Dr Eva Flecken, who led the rotating chair for the past two years. Schmiege previously served as coordinator of the Committee on Infrastructure and Innovation, a role now handed to Dr Wolfgang Kreißig of the LFK.
Albrecht Bähr was re-elected for another two-year term as chair of the Conference of Chairs of the Media Authorities (GVK). Bähr praised Flecken’s leadership during a period of fast-paced technological and regulatory change. Martin Gorholt also secured a further two years as deputy chair of the GVK.
The media sector is undergoing significant transformation, with global platforms reshaping the ecosystem at an accelerating rate. Bähr welcomed Schmiege as an experienced figure in media policy, emphasising the need for strong guidance to protect media freedom. Meanwhile, Professor Christian Krebs (NLM) will continue as coordinator of the Committee on Regulation.
Dr Eva Flecken had previously reorganised the Joint Office of the Media Authorities (GGS) to better handle the evolving regulatory demands. Her restructuring efforts aimed to address challenges posed by digital platforms and shifting media consumption patterns.
The leadership changes come at a critical time for Germany’s media regulators. With global platforms expanding their influence, the new chairs will focus on maintaining media freedom while adapting to technological advancements. Their terms will shape how the industry responds to ongoing digital disruption.
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