Leading German media organizations are urging the German government to intervene against proposed changes to U.S. visa regulations impacting foreign journalists. A joint letter, released Tuesday, calls on Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul (both of the Christian Democratic Union) to publicly support their request.
The letter, signed by representatives from ARD, ZDF, ProSiebenSat.1, RTL and Deutschlandradio, appeals to the government to formally express concerns to the U.S. administration regarding the planned visa reform. The proposed changes would limit journalist visa durations to 240 days, with the possibility of an extension for an additional 240 days.
The signatories emphasize the critical importance of free and unbiased information for democratic societies. They highlight the extensive international network of bureaus maintained by German broadcasters, with particular reference to the vital role of their Washington and New York offices.
The letter suggests the German government could demonstrate support by lodging a formal protest or diplomatic note to Washington, publicly registering their concern over the changes.
The proposal, initially put forward by the Trump administration and impacting both foreign journalists and academic exchange visitors, is currently open for public comment until September 29th. This follows a wave of protest issued last week by over 100 leading media organizations and associations globally, expressing opposition to the shortening of visa durations.