Concerns are mounting in Germany regarding recent developments impacting press freedom in the United States. Derya Türk-Nachbaur, Parliamentary Spokesperson for Foreign Affairs for the Social Democratic Party (SPD) in the German Bundestag, expressed deep apprehension over reports suggesting the late-night show hosted by Jimmy Kimmel was cancelled amid reported pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump.
“We are observing this with great concern” Türk-Nachbaur stated in comments to RTL and ntv television networks. “Free press reporting and independent shows are a truly vital cornerstone of democracy. And when that is compromised, when that is restricted, then I am worried about the state of democracy.
Further fueling these concerns are proposed limitations on foreign journalists working in the U.S. The plan, which would restrict the validity of work visas from five to eight months, has also drawn criticism from Türk-Nachbaur.
“We will address this through diplomatic channels” she confirmed. “The Foreign Minister is already doing so and we will collaborate with our counterparts and colleagues in the American parliament. There remains a need for further discussion on this matter”. The comments underscore a growing unease within German political circles regarding recent shifts in U.S. policies affecting media freedoms.