ZDF Journalists Dunja Hayali and Sarah Tacke Receive Hanns-Joachim-Friedrichs-Award

ZDF journalists Dunja Hayali and Sarah Tacke were honored with the Hanns-Joachim-Friedrichs-Award in Hamburg on November 5, 2026. The award, which has been presented annually since 1995, recognizes critical and independent television journalism. This year, the ceremony also featured a discussion moderated by Caren Miosga titled 'Journalism and the Attack on Democracy: Is It Time to Take a Stand?'

The jury, chaired by Sandra Maischberger, selected Hayali and Tacke to share the main prize for their distinct contributions to the field. Hayali, a moderator for the 'heute journal' and the 'Morgenmagazin,' was recognized for her courageous interview style and her ability to navigate complex, often hostile, public debates. The jury highlighted her resilience in the face of digital harassment and her commitment to bringing critical issues to the public eye.

Sarah Tacke, who leads the ZDF editorial department for law and justice, was honored for her role in clarifying legal and socio-political issues. A lawyer by training, Tacke was praised for her ability to translate complex legal frameworks into accessible information for viewers. The jury noted that her work provides a sense of competence and objectivity, which is essential for maintaining a healthy democratic discourse.

In addition to the main prize, the NDR media magazine 'ZAPP' received a special award. The jury commended the editorial team for its nuanced examination of journalistic practices, including the investigation of media credibility and the ethical challenges faced by the industry. The award acknowledges the program's role in holding media outlets, including public broadcasters, accountable for their reporting on controversial topics such as migration and international conflicts.

The Hanns-Joachim-Friedrichs-Förderpreis, a development award for emerging talent, was presented to NDR journalist Manuel Biallas. Biallas was recognized for his thorough research and empathetic storytelling in documentaries focusing on human rights, extremism, and social inequality. His work, including the documentary 'The Lie of Social Advancement?', was specifically cited by the jury for its ability to present complex societal issues at eye level with the subjects involved.

The ceremony served as a platform to address the current pressures on professional journalism. The jury emphasized that independent, fact-based reporting is increasingly challenged by both digital platforms and political efforts to alter the structure of public broadcasting. By honoring Hayali, Tacke, the 'ZAPP' team, and Biallas, the organization underscored the necessity of diverse journalistic approaches in defending democratic institutions and maintaining public trust.