2400 Guests at Augsburg Press Ball: Markus Söder Also Attends

Bavaria's Prime Minister Honors Journalists

Augsburg – 2400 guests gathered at the Congress Center in Augsburg for the traditional press ball. The highlight of the evening was a speech by Bavaria's Prime Minister Markus Söder (CSU). He praised the work of journalists in his opening speech and emphasized the importance of a free and independent press.

Söder: "Journalists are the Fourth Estate"

"Without journalists, there can be no functioning democracy," said Söder. "You are the fourth estate and have a responsibility to inform the public about what is happening in our country and in the world." In his view, however, journalists should not only report on events but also take a stand. "You should not be neutral when it comes to the future of our country," Söder demanded. "You must have an opinion and stand up for your values."

Söder also addressed the increasing threats to journalists, especially online. "It is unacceptable that journalists are insulted or even threatened because of their work," said the Prime Minister. "We must all stand up for the freedom of the press and protect journalists from attacks."

Augsburg Press Ball Since 1955

The Augsburg Press Ball has been held annually since 1955 and is one of the most important events in the Bavarian media landscape. Around 2400 guests from politics, business, culture and the media attended the event this year. The proceeds from the ball will be donated to charitable causes.