GermanyOwnership & classification
Founded: 2014
Ownership
CORRECTIV is Germany's first non-profit investigative newsroom, launched in 2014 and operated by CORRECTIV – Recherchen für die Gesellschaft gemeinnützige GmbH, based in Essen and Berlin. It belongs to no media conglomerate and is not listed on any exchange; as a charitable GmbH its shareholder functions and key decisions rest with a board of trustees/supervisory body that exists to safeguard editorial independence. Its founding was enabled by the Brost Foundation, which fulfilled the testamentary legacy of publisher's widow Anneliese Brost.
Funding
Funded as a non-profit through foundation grants (the Brost Foundation gave about 3.8 million euros from 2014 to 2018, alongside backers such as Open Society Foundations), corporate and institutional support, plus membership fees and reader donations rather than commercial ownership.
Affiliation & stance
CORRECTIV pursues investigative and fact-checking journalism with a center-left orientation, but it is structured as an independent charitable organization governed by a trustee board, with no party, government or owner exercising editorial control. Its self-governing non-profit structure makes it INDEPENDENT, matching the site's center-left lean.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Progressive
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 42
78/100
Factual
75/100
Objective
43
Articles
43
reports
Factual: How accurately its articles report the facts, judged against primary sources and the cross-outlet consensus. Only articles that cite their sources are counted.
Objective: How neutral the writing is — whether reporting keeps the writer’s own preferences and opinions out of the article.
Recent coverage
Before the elections in Saxony-Anhalt: coffee with Mr Siegmund?
Four weeks before the state election in Saxony-Anhalt, leading candidates from various parties participated in a televised debate hosted by MDR titled 'Fakt ist! Wahlarena,' where they addressed questions from the public on topics ranging from education, gas supply, migration, war, and peace. The discussion focused heavily on concerns regarding democracy, societal division, and the future role of the AfD, which leads in opinion polls with over 40 percent support. One audience member questioned why the CDU would maintain a 'firewall' against the AfD if they wanted to engage with their voters. The CDU’s Minister President, Sven Schulze, stated he had no intention of cooperating with the AfD but emphasized his willingness to talk to its supporters. The AfD’s candidate, Ulrich Siegmund, described a sense of optimism among his supporters, while Left Party candidate Eva von Angern warned against falling into the AfD’s narrative of victimhood. Education was another major topic, particularly the AfD’s proposal to replace compulsory schooling with a compulsory education mandate, which Siegmund argued could benefit children facing extreme bullying at school. Other issues included university
Protection of institutions: Federal Council prepares for AfD government
The article discusses concerns within the German federal council (Bundesrat) regarding potential influence by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party if it gains power in Saxony-Anhalt after the September 6 regional election. Bundesratspräsident Andreas Bovenschulte (SPD) states that while the AfD's presence could be felt politically, he does not foresee significant disruptions to the legislative process. He emphasizes that democratic forces are likely to prevail and stresses the need for continued efforts to prevent an AfD-led government. The AfD currently leads in opinion polls in Saxony-Anhalt ahead of the CDU, which holds the current leadership. Bovenschulte notes that the Bundesrat has already updated its rules of procedure to enhance stability and prevent potential challenges to the constitutional order, though these changes were not specifically aimed at the AfD but rather became necessary after over three decades. The article highlights procedural adjustments designed to limit opportunities for far-right politicians to gain influence within the Bundesrat.
Ceuta: No evidence of campaigning on social media
In der spanischen Exklave Ceuta erreichte Mitte August 2026 eine ungewöhnlich hohe Zahl von Geflüchteten, was den Verdacht geweckt hat, dass die Migrationsbewegung möglicherweise durch Soziale Netzwerke orchestriert worden sein könnte. CORRECTIV untersuchte die Situation und fand zwar keine konkreten Belege für eine zentral gesteuerte Kampagne, doch zeigte die Recherche, dass Soziale Netzwerke eine wichtige Rolle spielten. Flüchtlinge informierten sich und koordinierten sich teilweise über diese Plattformen, wobei einige Informationen als irreführend oder falsch bewertet wurden. Einige Beiträge, insbesondere mit einer Fehlinterpretation eines Gerichtsurteils, trugen möglicherweise zur Verbreitung des Gerüchts einer offenen Grenze bei. Der spanische Innenministeriumssprecher bestätigte einen Anstieg des Migrationsdrucks seit Frühjahr 2026, jedoch keine Warnung vor dem massiven Zustrom.
Frustration with government grows in Ceuta
An attempt by migrants to cross into Spain’s North African enclave Ceuta was thwarted this weekend due to heightened security measures by both Spain and Morocco. Following a large influx of approximately 72,000 migrants two weeks prior, reports suggested a potential border opening on August 15, prompting increased police and military presence at the border. Despite these efforts, hundreds of migrants attempted to reach the border from the Moroccan city of Fnideq, climbing hills and being dispersed by helicopters and pepper spray. While there were no major crossings, residents continue to express frustration over unresolved issues such as hygiene, healthcare access, and safety. Local residents like Josefa, an elderly woman, criticize the government for failing to address their concerns, noting that while officials visit for photo opportunities, substantive solutions remain elusive.
Ceuta: Morocco and Spain step up border security
Following calls on social media for another migrant surge toward Ceuta, Morocco and Spain have significantly strengthened security measures at the border between Morocco and the Spanish North African enclave. Additional barbed wire barriers were erected in the Moroccan border town of Fnideq, along with numerous checkpoints on access roads, and water cannons are stationed at the border itself. Moroccan security forces have taken positions at the beach in Fnideq, where many migrants had previously attempted to cross into Ceuta in late July. Patrol boats now monitor the coastline. Spain has already built a sea barrier and deployed hundreds of additional police and soldiers to Ceuta, who will remain until the situation stabilizes. The migrant influx two weeks ago was unprecedented, with up to 80,000 people reaching Ceuta, most by swimming across. According to recent official reports, 83 bodies were recovered from the sea. Many of those who arrived returned to Morocco within hours or days, while around 5,000 remained in Ceuta. The incident sparked tensions within the European Union, prompting EU interior ministers to call for stricter action against smugglers and more consistent return
CORRECTIV river atlas: Germany's rivers are drying up
German rivers such as the Rhine, Elbe, and Danube are experiencing historically low water levels during this heatwave summer, with boats stranded and exposed sandbanks visible. CORRECTIV's data analysis reveals that the current low-water crisis is not an isolated event but the result of a long-term decline in river water levels over the past 34 years. At 60% of monitoring stations, water levels have significantly decreased during periods of drought, while nearly 70% recorded record-low flows between 2018 and 2025. The trend indicates that Germany's rivers are increasingly drying up. This has serious implications for ecosystems, the economy, and drinking water supply, particularly in regions where rivers provide potable water. Experts attribute the situation primarily to recent severe drought conditions, which have led to increased water temperatures, algal blooms, and fish deaths. Economic impacts include disruptions to river shipping, estimated to reduce Germany's GDP by 0.3 percentage points.
Terror against Indigenous Peoples: Russia's Repression of its Own People
This article discusses coordinated raids by Russian authorities against indigenous activists in December 2025, targeting their homes and seizing personal belongings. The timing was designed to prevent communication among activists. The piece highlights the historical context of how these groups have been labeled as 'terrorists' by the state. It explains that Russia is home to over 190 ethnic groups, including indigenous communities with populations often under 50,000. These groups, such as the Tschulymen and Sámi, rely on traditional practices like fishing, hunting, and reindeer herding, which are deeply tied to their cultural identity. The article emphasizes the economic significance of these regions while raising concerns about the repression faced by indigenous peoples.
PULTU: CATAPULT and CORRECTIV are making geopolitics understandable
CORRECTIV and Katapult have launched a new magazine called PULTU aimed at making complex geopolitical issues more accessible. The publication focuses on explaining current global conflicts, their causes, and the underlying forces driving them. It was founded in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and includes maps and graphics to simplify complex developments. PULTU is published quarterly and is available through subscription for 72 euros per year, with digital access included. Readers can choose to pay a higher voluntary contribution to support accessibility for those who cannot afford the standard price. Print editions are available in select bookstores and online.
What does mental illness really cost?
The article discusses the ongoing debate over proposed reductions in psychotherapy fees in Germany, which have sparked protests and concern among both patients and professionals. The health insurance companies argue that therapy fees have risen disproportionately over the past decade, leading them to file lawsuits against the decision. Meanwhile, the federal government has introduced further cost-cutting measures through the Beitragsstabilisierungsgesetz. Critics warn that these cuts could worsen access to mental health care, citing long waiting times and regional disparities in therapist availability. The article highlights arguments from mental health professionals that reducing therapy services now could lead to higher economic costs later due to untreated mental illnesses. It references data showing that up to 41% of adults experience psychological disorders, yet many face significant delays in receiving treatment.
15.They say the 15th 15.: News on social networks indicates a new onslaught on Ceuta
Am Ende Juli 2026 strömten Zehntausende Menschen aus Marokko in die spanische Exklave Ceuta, wobei über hundert Opfer starben. Viele Betroffene kehrten bereits nach Marokko zurück, doch es wird befürchtet, dass ein ähnlicher Ansturm im August wiederkehren könnte. Soziale Netzwerke spielten eine zentrale Rolle bei der Verbreitung von Spekulationen und Falschmeldungen, darunter Videos, die irreführende Aussagen enthielten, sowie Tipps zu möglichen Fluchtrouten. Analysen der spanischen Zeitung El País, der Redaktion Maldita und eines Berichts der Militärpolizei Guardia Civil zeigen, dass in sozialen Medien offenbar Diskussionen um einen weiteren Masseneintritt am 15. August stattfinden. Die Guardia Civil berichtet, dass in sozialen Medien Aufrufe zum Grenzübertritt am 15. August kursieren. Die Ermittlungen basieren auf öffentlich zugänglichen Quellen wie Facebook-, WhatsApp- und Instagram-Gruppen sowie spanischen und marokkanischen Medien. Der Meta-Konzern und TikTok haben Teams eingesetzt, um illegale Inhalte zu entfernen, doch einige Nachrichten, wie ein arabischer Beitrag mit dem Datum 15. August, blieben unangefochten. CORRECTIV konnte bis zum 12. August bestätigen, dass mindestes
Drone sighting in Leipzig: 'It is likely that Russia is behind the attack'
In Leipzig wurde eine Bombendrohne am Flughafen gefunden, was zu Spekulationen über mögliche staatliche Akteure führt. Bundesinnenminister Alexander Dobrindt gab zunächst vorsichtige Aussagen ab, während Grünen-Politiker Konstantin von Notz den Anschlag auf Russland zurückführte. Von Notz argumentierte, dass die Entdeckung der Drohne in der Nähe ukrainischer Frachtmaschinen sowie das Muster des Angriffs auf kritische Infrastruktur auf Russland hindeuten. Dobrindt hielt sich jedoch bewusst zurück, da die Hinweise noch nicht eindeutig sind und er seine Worte sorgfältig wählen musste. Zudem wird der Begriff 'hybrider Anschlag' oft auf russische Aktivitäten angewendet, obwohl andere Länder wie Iran ebenfalls in diesem Bereich tätig sind.
Intelligence services: Poseck: There is a risk of attacks at any time
The article discusses concerns raised by Roman Poseck, the Hessian Minister of the Interior, regarding the increased risk of terrorist attacks in Germany. He references the recent escalation of threat levels by Federal Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, who moved the assessment from 'abstract' to 'high.' Poseck highlights two major incidents: the Islamist attack during the Christopher Street Day parade in Berlin and a hybrid attack involving a drone with explosives at Leipzig Airport. These events demonstrate the growing danger posed by extremists and other states using sabotage, espionage, and hybrid threats. According to the Hessian Constitutional Protection Report 2025, right-wing extremism remains the greatest threat in Hessen, but there has been a noticeable increase in violent acts by left-wing extremists and Islamists, as well as cases of espionage and hybrid threats. The Hessian Constitutional Protection Office, now more staffed and reorganized, faces unprecedented demands.
No, Merkel didn't say she brought migrants into the country to stop right-wing extremists
A video clip from an interview with former German Chancellor Angela Merkel has been circulating on social media, falsely claiming she admitted to intentionally allowing Muslim migrants into Germany to stop the far-right. The clip, taken from an ARD show called 'Freiheit Deluxe' from March 6, 2026, begins at minute 24. In the interview, Merkel discusses her experiences being shouted down by AfD members during campaign events and emphasizes unity among German citizens, including those with migration backgrounds. She criticizes the AfD’s attempt to divide the population into 'correct' and 'incorrect' groups, stating this contradicts the Basic Law. However, Merkel does not mention intentionally bringing people into Germany or stopping the far-right in the full 70-minute interview. The false claim was initially spread by British far-right figure Tommy Robinson and later distorted further. The origin of the false statement remains unclear.