DJV

DJV, short for Deutscher Journalisten-Verband, is a German professional association for journalists. It represents reporters, editors, photographers, and other media workers. The organization aims to defend press freedom, safeguard the independence of journalism, and improve working conditions for media professionals. It operates as a federation of regional associations and local chapters, encompassing members from print, broadcast, and online outlets.

Activities include legal advice and representation in professional matters, training and continuing education, and the provision of guidance on professional ethics and standards. The DJV engages in national policy discussions on media regulation, transparency, and information access, and collaborates with other journalist organizations in Germany and internationally. It also participates in debates on newsroom safety and digital media challenges.

Ethics and codes: The DJV supports adherence to voluntary journalistic codes of conduct and to the German Press Code, working with publishers and editors' associations to promote responsible reporting and protection of sources.

Structure and relationships: The DJV is the umbrella for regional associations and maintains relationships with other groups in the German media landscape. It exists alongside the Deutsche Journalistinnen- und Journalisten-Union (dju) in ver.di, a separate trade union representing journalists' labor and contractual rights.

History: Founded in the postwar era to strengthen professional journalism and defend freedoms, the DJV has continued to adapt to changes in technology, ownership structures, and the regulatory environment in Germany.