In its code of conduct DW says that it stands for "freedom, democracy and human rights" which it describes as being a "cornerstones of our journalistic and development message and profile". Promoting itself as a progressive organisation, the broadcaster adds: "We advocate the values of freedom and, wherever we are, take independent and clear positions, especially against any and all kinds of discrimination including sexism, racism and antisemitism."
Explaining its reason for granting Israel a special and privileged protective status not shown to anyone else, DW says: "Due to Germany's history, we have a special obligation towards Israel," and states that "Germany's historical responsibility for the Holocaust is also a reason for which we support the right of Israel to exist."
The intolerance toward any criticism of Israel in DW's code of conduct has sparked a debate about the contradiction between the broadcaster's commitment to universal values and what it calls "its special obligation towards Israel".
At www.middleeastmonitor.com
