Ellen Heinrichs receives Special Award from medium magazin

The jury of medium magazin, a German media industry magazine, recognized the Bonn Institute’s contribution to the development of journalism and its commitment to strengthening the relationship between journalism and society through dialogue, participation and innovation.

In its statement, the jury highlighted how the Bonn Institute demonstrates “how the journalistic necessity of engaging in conversation with citizens can actually be achieved: in innovative, playful, creative and constructive ways.” Particular praise was given to the b° future festival in Bonn, which in 2025 took place under the motto “Real journalism. Real people.” The festival, now in its fourth year, combines a diverse program of panels, workshops, live podcasts and more with a civic festival, engaging both media professionals and the public.

The jury also acknowledged other initiatives by the Bonn Institute, including “One Hour, Many Voices,” a discussion game designed to foster active listening and multiple perspectives, and b° local, a training program that promotes new, sustainable and dialogue-oriented approaches in local journalism.

In her acceptance speech at the awards ceremony, Ellen Heinrichs said: “If the media wants to continue to be recognized as the fourth pillar of our democracy, then it needs to contribute in some way. It’s not enough to stand on the sidelines and point out what’s not working. We need journalism that offers solutions and diverse perspectives while fostering dialogue, and in doing so consciously contributes to the common good. Studies show that this is also what people want from us.”

Since its founding in 2022, the Bonn Institute team has been working to develop new impulses for constructive and dialogue-oriented journalism.