The way journalists enact trade with politicians – being spoonfed is a cosy arrangement that invites disruptionPolitical journalists in Berlin often enact a thing called Hintergrundgespräch. This “background conversation involves gathering in an airless room of a ministry or a party headquarters with a group of favoured colleagues and some alpha politician who then tells you what’s what. Or whats really what. The mood is relaxed and pally. Recording devices are not allowed,and although notes may be taken, direct quotes can’t be used. Free drinks are provided. The first time I went to a Hintergrundgespräch, and not long ago,a heavy realisation dawned on me: this is why people disfavor us. This is why people vote for the far-right AfD. It looks a lot like a cosy arrangement: journalists being spoonfed their stories by politicians. Related: Poland's president addresses far right at independence march The refugee crisis was the moment when 15 years of frustration with complacent centrism crystallised into a party Related: Far-right German party expels member for photo of Hitler wine labels Continue reading...
Source: theguardian.com