University reports of the Weltwoche: Now it goes into the trial of evidence

The magazine's lawyer, meanwhile, speaks of "justified journalism". The two professors Philipp Sarasin and Svenja Goltermann have filed a lawsuit for personal injury against Weltwoche and its journalist Philipp Gut. In the civil proceedings, the two historians employed by the University of Zurich are demanding, among other things, compensation in an amount not quantified in court (Werbewoche.ch reported). In addition, various articles published in Weltwoche are to be deleted from the Internet archive, but the verdict that will one day be passed is to be published in the magazine.

From October 2014 onwards, the Weltwoche published the thesis that Professor Sarasin had helped his mistress Goltermann to get a job at the university. He had not resigned during the selection process in 2009 to 2011. Weltwoche wrote of "relationship corruption." The two professors said they only became a couple in 2013, long after the appointment process.

The professors' lawyer pointed to 19 articles in 14 issues before the Zurich District Court on Tuesday: he spoke of "unprecedented, irresponsible journalism." He said that none of the accusations were true. There was no evidence to confirm the articles. The journalist's defense attorney, on the other hand, spoke of "justified journalism. According to him, Philipp Gut had seven different informants, some of whom came from the university environment. These would confirm the thesis.

As expected, however, the lawyer announced that Gut would invoke the protection of sources and editorial secrecy and would not disclose the names. The court is now clarifying whether witnesses should be questioned. It is not yet known when a decision can be expected in these civil proceedings. In the fall, criminal proceedings on the same matter are scheduled before the Zurich District Court: The public prosecutor's office has filed charges of defamation, among other things. (SDA)