German Association of Investigative Journalists Expels Putin-Friendly Reporter

Award-winning German television journalist Hubert Sippel has been expelled from the Netzwerk Recherche association because he “violated the basic principles of independent journalism.” Netzwerk Recherche is an organization that supports and promotes investigative journalism in Germany.

In November 2023, it emerged that the award-winning journalist and TV writer had received PLN 600,000 (EUR) from Russian businessman Alexei Mordashov. The money was intended to support book projects. “The payments accepted by Hubert Sippel contradict all principles of journalistic integrity and professionalism. With his actions, he has caused serious damage to investigative journalism and the reputation of our profession in the eyes of the public,” the association said, citing the union. DPA, justifying the exclusion.