NDR Separates from 'Klar' Presenter Julia Ruhs Amidst Political Criticism

NDR Ends Collaboration with Julia Ruhs for 'Klar' Format

The North German Broadcasting (NDR) has announced its decision to no longer employ Julia Ruhs as a presenter for its television format 'Klar'. This move, which sees Ruhs continuing her role for episodes produced by the Bavarian Broadcasting (BR), has ignited a wave of criticism from prominent German politicians, raising questions about opinion diversity within public broadcasting. The 'Klar' format, launched in April 2025, was designed to address 'major controversial issues' and appeal to a broader audience, including those with more conservative viewpoints.

The 'Klar' Format and Internal Controversies

The program 'Klar', a joint production by NDR and BR, aimed to tackle sensitive topics such as immigration and the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite internal surveys reportedly showing high audience acceptance, with 63 percent of respondents giving the show top grades and perceiving it as a 'positive extension' of ARD's programming, the format and Ruhs's involvement generated considerable debate within the NDR. Reports indicate that numerous NDR employees distanced themselves from the format, particularly after an initial episode on migration, and criticized Ruhs's perceived conservative stance. Some media outlets described an 'internal power struggle' and 'mobbing campaign' against Ruhs due to her views.

Political Outcry and Demands for Public Broadcasting Reform

The NDR's decision has drawn sharp reactions from across the political spectrum, particularly from conservative figures. Carsten Linnemann, General Secretary of the CDU, condemned the incident as a 'new low for debate culture in Germany' and called for significant consequences for public broadcasting, including a potential freeze on broadcasting fees. Jens Spahn, leader of the CDU parliamentary group, spoke of a 'justification problem' for public broadcasters. Daniel Günther, Minister President of Schleswig-Holstein (CDU), labeled the separation an 'extremely bad signal' and a 'disservice' by the NDR, suggesting it could confirm prejudices among those losing faith in democratic parties. Culture State Minister Wolfram Weimer (non-partisan) stated that the decision reinforces the impression of political one-sidedness.

Julia Ruhs's Reaction and NDR's Stance

Julia Ruhs expressed her deep disappointment with the NDR's decision, stating, 'For the NDR, I am too right.' She believes the move confirms the prejudices of those who had lost trust in the opinion diversity of public broadcasting. While the NDR has not provided a specific reason for the separation, a spokesperson affirmed the broadcaster's commitment to fostering an 'open discussion culture'. Ruhs will continue to moderate the 'Klar' episodes produced by the Bavarian Broadcasting, while the NDR plans to continue its own episodes with a different presenter.