German Regional Media Authority Issues Warning to Journalist Alexander Wallasch
The regional media authority, Lower Saxony’s Media Agency, has sent a warning to journalist Alexander Wallasch, threatening to shut down his online platform, which has thousands of regular readers. The agency’s letter, published by Wallasch on Sunday, demands that he review and potentially remove all his previous publications by March 10, citing the need for adherence to “journalistic standards.” If he fails to comply, the agency may initiate a costly formal procedure, known as a “complaint procedure.”
The letter, received by Wallasch on February 8, specifically criticizes articles that reported on alleged vaccine side effects and those that expressed critical views on migration. The agency claims that the latter contain “generalized and unsubstantiated claims about Syrian and Afghan migrants.” It also takes issue with the lack of sources and evidence supporting the article’s claims of daily violent crimes and attacks by migrants.
Regarding the reported vaccine side effects, the agency argues that Wallasch published videos without providing evidence of a causal link between the vaccine and the alleged side effects. Furthermore, he did not consult an expert to weigh the risks and benefits of vaccination, potentially inciting unnecessary fear and concern among readers.
In a statement on Sunday, Wallasch rejected the agency’s claims and announced that he would not comply with their demands. He vowed to continue his reporting and to rally public support against the agency’s attempts to silence him.
Alexander Wallasch, a 1964-born journalist, author and blogger, is best known for his novel “Deutscher Sohn” which explores the emotions of a German soldier who returned from Afghanistan. As a journalist, he has worked for various outlets, including alternative media platforms and currently focuses on his own blog. Wallasch is often associated with the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party.