Swiss Federal Court Upholds Secrecy of Ringier CEO’s Emails
The Swiss Federal Court has rejected the prosecution’s appeal and ruled that the emails of Ringier CEO Marc Walder and former Alain Berset’s communications chief Peter Lauener will remain sealed. The decision comes as a result of the so-called “Corona-Leaks” scandal, in which Lauener informed Walder of confidential decisions on vaccine funding, which were then published in the Blick newspaper.
The Swiss Attorney General’s Office had seized a large amount of data from Walder and Lauener as part of an investigation into the “Crypto-Affair”. However, the court ruled that the protection of the journalist’s sources takes precedence over the prosecution’s requests for the emails to be unsealed and investigated.
The court’s decision emphasizes the importance of the journalist’s privilege, which is enshrined in the Swiss Constitution and extends not only to journalists but also to individuals who assist them, such as publishers and management members. The court held that the redaction of the emails was necessary to protect the source of the information and the journalist’s ability to gather information without fear of reprisal.
The ruling has significant implications for the prosecution’s investigation and may set a precedent for future cases. The court’s decision highlights the crucial role of the media in a democratic society, allowing for the detection of wrongdoing and the holding of those in power accountable.
The controversy surrounding the “Corona-Leaks” raises questions about the blurred lines between politics and the media. The fact that confidential information was leaked to a newspaper through a company CEO has sparked concerns about the transparency of the process and the potential for manipulation of the media. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of a free and independent press in a democratic society.