Sveriges Radio is under scrutiny for its handling of a controversial Gaza petition signed by prominent journalists, including its own correspondents. The petition, which calls for press access to Gaza, has sparked debate over media responsibility and impartiality, with critics arguing it takes a political stance. Program Director Sofia Wadensjö Karén acknowledges the negative impact on the broadcaster's credibility.
Sveriges Radio Faces Backlash Over Gaza Petition Debate
Sveriges Radio Faces Backlash Over Gaza Petition Debate
Sveriges Radio has faced criticism for its handling of the Gaza petition. Program Director Sofia Wadensjö Karén believes the public service company is negatively affected by such debates.
"I think we are harmed by this type of debate," she says.
The petition, published in Expressen, was signed by around 500 journalists, writers, and cultural workers, including Sveriges Radio's prominent correspondents Cecilia Uddén and Johan Mathias Sommarström.
The petition demands that journalists be allowed into Gaza, a request that has been impossible since the war began, drawing strong criticism both internationally and from media organizations in Sweden.
However, the petition has also been criticized for its wording, suggesting that media, through inadequate coverage, have "contributed to legitimizing" what is described as genocide.
The decision that SR employees can continue reporting on Gaza has been criticized by those who believe the petition represents a political stance.
No Regrets Over Signing
Cecilia Uddén agrees that the wording about genocide was "problematic."
"It's very sweeping to say it's about the media's inadequate reporting. I don't think all media have been inadequate, although there are examples of Western media adopting one side," she said during a debate at the Publicistklubben on Monday evening.
But she does not regret signing it, as the four demands for press freedom are so important.
SR "Harmed"
At the Publicistklubben, Program Director Sofia Wadensjö Karén was also asked if Sveriges Radio's credibility has been damaged.
"Yes, I think we are harmed by this type of debate, and I think we also obscure the real issue," she says.
She believes the situation is difficult to manage.
"We need to reason our way to something we can stand by. These are difficult judgment calls and difficult discussions," says Sofia Wadensjö Karén.