Informationsauftrag

Informationsauftrag is a term used to describe the information mandate of the media, namely the obligation to inform the public about events, issues and contexts that are relevant for democratic participation and informed decision-making. In German-speaking countries the concept is closely linked to public-service broadcasting, where informing the public is a central task alongside education and culture.

The scope typically includes timely news reporting, background information, explainers, investigative journalism and the presentation of diverse perspectives. Public broadcasters usually articulate this mandate as part of their constitutional or statutory framework, often described as an informations-, bildungs- und kulturauftrag (information, education, and culture mandate). Private media may also claim an information mandate, but the exact obligations depend on professional ethics, editorial independence, and market conditions.

Legal and ethical frameworks vary by country. The information mandate is commonly embedded in broadcasting laws, press freedom protections and editorial codes, with an emphasis on accuracy, verification and transparency. The aim is to enable citizens to understand public affairs, hold institutions to account and participate in democratic processes, while balancing rights to privacy and other competing interests.

Practice and standards emphasize fact-checking, verification, presenting multiple viewpoints, and providing context through investigative reporting and data journalism. In the digital age, the Informationsauftrag faces challenges such as misinformation, algorithmic amplification, audience fragmentation and funding pressures, prompting ongoing adaptation in how information is gathered, verified and communicated.

See also: press freedom, public broadcasting, transparency, journalism ethics.