Hochner Prize awarded to ORF journalist Ertl

The Robert-Hochner Prize for outstanding reporting in radio and television has been awarded this year to ORF journalist Constanze Ertl. The award ceremony took place today in the President's Office, where Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen presented the prizes. Ertl received the prize, which comes with a sum of 7,500 euros, for her courageous and persistent research into the sensitive topic of ME/CFS, a severe and often neglected illness. Her work highlighted political oversights and brought attention to a societal issue that had long remained hidden.

Ertl, who works in the chronicle department of the ORF, successfully drew attention to political failures and used journalistic determination to make a previously taboo subject visible. The jury praised her for her commitment to uncovering truth and raising awareness about a condition that affects many but remains largely misunderstood.

In addition to Ertl’s recognition, the Kurt-Vorhofer Prize for outstanding political reporting in print media went to Nina Horaczek, chief reporter of the magazine “Falter.” The prize also carries a value of 7,500 euros and was awarded by the journalists' union. Horaczek was commended for taking on social responsibility in her journalism, characterized by thematic breadth and stylistic brilliance. Her work gives voice to those who are often overlooked in political discourse.

President Van der Bellen also paid tribute to the late journalist Andreas Koller, who had once won the Vorhofer Prize and served as a political editor at the Salzburg News. He emphasized the importance of free and high-quality media in a liberal democracy, stating that they form part of its institutional core. According to Barbara Prainsack, a political scientist from the University of Vienna, elections and an intact rule of law alone are insufficient without a strong press.

Meanwhile, another significant legal case involving public figures is unfolding. Gerald Grosz, a former politician and current speaker, faces a defamation lawsuit over remarks he made during a televised debate. In a previous episode of the show Fellner Live!, Grosz referred to Vice Chancellor Andreas Babler as a “kastriert” (castrated) and “eunuch,” terms that were considered offensive. Babler filed a complaint against Grosz, leading to a court hearing.

During the trial, Grosz’s lawyer, Peter Borbas, sought to provide context for Grosz’s comments, arguing that the statements were meant to highlight Babler’s alleged lack of assertiveness rather than being personally attacking. The court, presided over by Judge Stefan Romstorfer, initially hesitated to fully examine the entire broadcast, focusing instead on the specific moments in question. However, a brief segment was played to clarify the situation.

Grosz, known for his eloquence and ability to engage audiences both domestically and internationally, defended his position by emphasizing the nature of the program, which he described as a “Political Entertainment Format.” He argued that the format itself encouraged hyperbolic language and that his remarks were intended to critique Babler’s political strategies rather than attack him personally.

Despite these arguments, the court found that Grosz’s statements could be interpreted as defamatory. During the proceedings, Grosz attempted to shift the focus of the discussion, explaining that his remarks were not about Babler’s physical capabilities but about his political decisions. He claimed that he was addressing Babler’s perceived betrayal of his party’s principles.

Judge Romstorfer remained unmoved by Grosz’s attempts to justify his actions, repeatedly reminding him of the need to respond directly to the allegations. The case highlights ongoing tensions between free speech and the boundaries of acceptable political discourse in Austria. As the trial continues, it will be interesting to see how the court balances these competing interests and whether it will set a precedent for future cases involving similar issues.