Germany: "Tagesschau" becomes more comprehensible

The German news programs "Tagesschau" and "Tagesthemen" are to become more comprehensible for the average viewer. This was announced by the new ARD editor-in-chief Thomas Baumann, who took office last July 1. According to the media magazine Dwdl.de, Baumann explained on Friday that he wanted to "offer more guard rails and orientation markers". For example, there will be more "explanatory pieces" in the "Tagesthemen" and more longer reports in the "Tagesschau". "Despite the professionalism of our newsmakers, some viewers sometimes find it difficult to follow," says Baumann. Three years ago, a study by the Gewis Institute found that only 12 percent of Germans still fully understand the "Tagesschau", while 88 percent have problems with individual words or entire reports.