GermanyOwnership & classification
Founded: 1993
Ownership
Focus was launched as a weekly news magazine in January 1993 by Hubert Burda and Helmut Markwort; its online arm Focus Online grew into one of Germany's largest news portals. It is published by FOCUS Magazin Verlag GmbH, which sits within the Hubert Burda Media group based in Offenburg. Hubert Burda Media is wholly owned and controlled by the Burda family, with Hubert Burda as publisher and general partner.
Funding
Financed commercially through advertising, online traffic monetisation and subscriptions, as part of the family-owned Burda media business; no party or state subsidy.
Affiliation & stance
Focus has a moderately conservative, center-right editorial outlook but is privately owned by the Burda family with no party, church or government control over content. That private commercial ownership makes it INDEPENDENT, consistent with the site's center-right lean.
Editorial lean
- Our estimate
- Lean Conservative
- Measured from coverage
- Centerbased on 763
69/100
Factual
59/100
Objective
914
Articles
914
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
Sky du Mont shocked by the wave of hatred against Hape Kerkeling
The article discusses the backlash faced by comedian Hape Kerkeling after he made controversial remarks during a speech. His colleague, Sky du Mont, expressed shock at the wave of hate directed towards Kerkeling. The situation has sparked debate about free speech and the limits of humor in public discourse. Kerkeling's comments reportedly touched on sensitive topics, leading to strong reactions from the public and media. The incident highlights tensions around personal expression and societal expectations.
The AfD is anti-constitutional
The article from Süddeutsche Zeitung accuses the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party of acting 'verfassungsfeindlich,' which translates to 'constitutionally hostile.' The piece frames the AfD's actions and rhetoric as undermining the principles of the German constitution, particularly regarding democratic values and the rule of law. It highlights specific instances where the AfD has been criticized for promoting ideas that conflict with constitutional norms. The article does not provide direct quotes from AfD members but emphasizes the broader implications of their stance on democracy and governance. The tone suggests a critical view of the AfD’s position within the political landscape.
The Bund wants 1046 new jobs for sugar and plastic tax
The article reports that the German federal government plans to create 1,046 new positions related to the sugar and plastic tax. This initiative appears to be part of broader efforts to implement and manage these taxes, which aim to reduce consumption of sugary products and single-use plastics. The creation of new jobs suggests increased administrative focus on enforcing these policies. However, the article does not provide further details on the scope of the tax, expected impacts, or specific responsibilities of the new roles.
The Nobel Prize in Medicine: a victory for basic research
The Nobel Prize in Medicine has been awarded to Peter Hegemann, Georg Nagel, and Karl Deisseroth for their groundbreaking work in optogenetics. Their research involves using light-sensitive proteins derived from algae to control neurons, enabling scientists to study brain function at an unprecedented level. This method allows researchers like Markus Rothermel to explore how attention forms, how memories and emotions are created by nerve cells, and other complex neurological processes. The development of optogenetics began with studies on the green alga *Chlamydomonas reinhardtii*, which uses a photoreceptor similar to human rhodopsin to move toward light. This discovery led to the identification of light-sensitive ion channels that could be used to activate neurons. Despite initial skepticism, the breakthrough was achieved in 2002 by Hegemann and Nagel, and later refined by Deisseroth, who applied the technique to neuroscience.
8500 tickets: tickets for the Christmas market were sold out within 3 hours
An article reports that 8,500 tickets for a Christmas market event were sold out within three hours. The headline highlights the rapid sell-out, emphasizing high demand for the event. The article does not provide additional context such as the location of the market, the number of attendees, or any specific details about the event itself beyond ticket sales. There is no mention of any controversy, political implications, or further developments related to the event.
780,000 euros in tax debts, but in the Ferrari: the financial police confiscated 600,000 euros from two brothers
Two brothers in Germany were found to owe 780,000 euros in taxes but were still driving a Ferrari. The financial police seized 600,000 euros from them as part of efforts to collect their outstanding tax debt.
AfD and Greens: Will every Fundi ever become a good Real?
The article explores the early history of Germany’s Green Party (Grüne), highlighting their radical and heterogeneous beginnings, including groups like the 'Goa-Freaks' and members influenced by various ideologies such as anthroposophy and Marxist thought. It contrasts this chaotic start with the eventual formation of a more moderate, governable party through political pragmatism and compromises. The piece questions whether a similar path could have tempered the Alternative for Germany (AfD), suggesting that early political involvement might have forced the AfD to adopt more mainstream values. Historian Andreas Rödder argues that the Greens’ early coalition with the SPD led to a debate between 'Realos' (moderate reformers) and 'Fundis' (radicals), resulting in moderation. He extends this theory to the AfD, claiming that earlier inclusion in government could have exposed its true nature sooner. The article raises broader questions about whether institutional integration is necessary for ideological parties to become politically viable.
Klopp-era is not coming into play: Press opinions on the DFB team
The article titled 'Klopp-Ära kommt nicht in Gang' discusses the mixed reactions from the German media regarding the appointment of Jürgen Klopp as the new coach of the German national football team (DFB-Team). While some outlets acknowledge Klopp’s reputation as a successful manager, others express skepticism about his ability to immediately transform the team’s performance. The piece highlights the broader debate around Klopp’s suitability for the role, including concerns about his experience with international teams and the challenges he faces in adapting to the high-pressure environment of German football. It also references the expectations placed on Klopp to quickly improve Germany’s standing in international competitions.
Expert: 'It is a mistake not to react directly'
The article features an expert opinion stating that 'not reacting directly harshly is a mistake.' The expert is commenting on a situation where a firm stance is necessary, though the specific context or issue being discussed is not elaborated upon in the provided text.
The car industry is losing one in two jobs.
The article titled 'Autobranche verliert jeden 2. Job: Wir sollten keinen retten' from FOCUS online discusses the ongoing decline in employment within the automotive industry in Germany. It highlights the significant number of jobs being lost due to factors such as automation, shifting market demands, and environmental regulations. The piece suggests that there may be a need to accept these losses rather than attempt to save all positions, implying that some roles might become obsolete. The tone appears to reflect a pragmatic stance towards the inevitable changes in the sector.
License to attack for spies?: BND chief: "Russia is testing us"
The head of Germany's foreign intelligence agency, the BND, Martin Jäger, warned during a parliamentary hearing that Russia is testing Germany's resolve and could increase pressure if Germany appears hesitant. He emphasized that Russia is not only using propaganda but also direct kinetic actions, such as drone attacks and sabotage, against Western targets, including within Germany itself. Recent incidents include drones found at Leipzig Airport with military-grade explosives and a Munich-based drone manufacturer who became a target of Russian intelligence. Jäger called for expanded legal powers for spies to counter these threats, though critics argue the proposed new law goes too far.
Wealth has changed Christoph Kramer's friendships: 'You lead a different life'
The article discusses how Christoph Kramer's wealth has altered his friendships, quoting him as saying, 'You lead a different life.' The piece explores the impact of financial success on personal relationships, suggesting that wealth can create distance between individuals. It highlights the challenges of maintaining genuine connections when one's lifestyle and opportunities differ significantly from those of friends. While the article does not delve into specific incidents or provide detailed examples, it raises broader questions about social dynamics in affluent circles.
Ex-butler claims Princess Diana wrote letter about death anxiety: 'My husband is planning an accident'
A former butler has claimed that Princess Diana wrote a letter expressing her fear of death, stating 'My husband plans an accident.' The claim was reported by Focus Online, a German news outlet. The assertion suggests that Prince Charles may have been involved in planning an incident that led to Diana's death in a car crash in 1997. However, the claim remains unverified and has not been substantiated by official sources or corroborated evidence.