Five journalists awarded: Concordia prices for courage and truth!

Five journalists awarded: Concordia prices for courage and truth!

Vienna, Österreich - On April 29, 2025, the Concordia prices for outstanding journalistic achievements were awarded in parliament. In a festive framework, the jury honored four journalists who dealt with decisive topics through their committed work. The prices were awarded in different categories to honor the diversity and importance of journalism in a changing media landscape.

The award winners include Barbara Tóth, a journalist at the "Falter", who was recognized for her report on the discrediting of journalists. Johannes Greß and Christof Mackinger, both freelance journalists, received the award in the human rights category for their research on working conditions for Danube cruises. Armin Thurnher, editor of "Falter", was awarded the honorary award for his life's work.

excellent work

Barbara Tóth received the prize in the press freedom category for her article, which revealed the mechanisms of propaganda portals and dealt with the accusations of plagiarism against Alexandra Föderl-Schmid. These allegations, which turned out to be unfounded, were a significant topic in the current media landscape. Their thorough research and factual analysis emphasizes the urgency to protect the freedom of the press today, such as Concordia.

Johannes Greß and Christof Mackinger addressed the precarious working conditions on Danube cruise ships in their work. They covered the realities of life from workers from Southeast Asia who have to work under extreme conditions. The journalists demanded better framework conditions for the workforce and criticized the financing models of tabloids, which often stir up hatred and agitation.

life's work and insights into media policy

Armin Thurnher, an important journalist and author, has left his life's work a lasting influence on the public debate and media policy in Austria. Thurnher, who looks back on a long career and is 76 years old, was recognized in his eulogy as the "Sisyphus of Publicistics" and "Intellectuals". Despite his doubles about his influence on the public, he accepted the award with humor and thanked you warmly, as Vienna reported.

The jury of Concordia prices 2025, chaired by Heide Schmidt, emphasized the relevance of the excellent work. These award winners embody the challenges and opportunities that journalism has to overcome in the context of media change, as well as the bpb addressed.