PULTU: CATAPULT and CORRECTIV are making geopolitics understandable

Two German media organizations, CORRECTIV and KATAPULT, have launched a new publication called PULTU aimed at making geopolitical issues more accessible to the public. The initiative was born in response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine and seeks to provide readers with clear insights into global conflicts, their causes, and the key players behind them. According to David Schraven, managing director and publisher of CORRECTIV, the collaboration aims to offer orientation in an increasingly complex world. “We want to explain together what is happening in the world, why it happens, and who the driving forces behind the big and small conflicts around the globe are,” he said. The project emphasizes the importance of visual storytelling through maps and graphics to help clarify complicated geopolitical developments. This approach is designed to engage individuals who may not have previously engaged deeply with geopolitical topics. PULTU is positioned as both an educational tool and a platform for deeper understanding of international affairs, particularly relevant in times of rising tensions and shifting power dynamics. Launched amid heightened global awareness of conflict zones, PULTU has already been described as a success by its creators. Benjamin Fredrichs of KATAPULT noted that the format has gained traction since its inception. He expressed enthusiasm about expanding the project alongside CORRECTIV, aiming to elevate it further. “We’re thrilled to take this format to the next level together with CORRECTIV,” he stated, highlighting the potential for growth and impact. The publication will appear four times a year and is available by subscription for 72 euros annually. Digital access is included in the subscription price, while readers can choose to contribute additional support voluntarily. These contributions will help ensure that the content remains accessible to those who might otherwise be unable to afford it, reinforcing the publication’s commitment to inclusivity and broad reach. Print editions of PULTU are distributed through well-stocked train station bookstores, selected kiosks, and bookshops. They can also be ordered online via the official website. This multi-channel distribution strategy ensures that the publication reaches both digital and print audiences, catering to different preferences and accessibility needs. The launch of PULTU reflects a growing trend among media outlets to simplify complex global issues for wider audiences. With ongoing conflicts and political shifts dominating headlines, there is increasing demand for publications that break down these events into digestible formats. By combining investigative journalism with visual aids, PULTU aims to bridge the gap between academic analysis and public understanding. As the publication moves forward, it will likely face challenges common to independent media projects, including sustaining reader interest and securing consistent funding. However, the initial reception suggests that there is a market for such a venture, especially given the current climate of uncertainty and information overload. The partnership between CORRECTIV and KATAPULT brings together two established voices in German journalism, potentially enhancing the credibility and reach of the new magazine. The availability of both print and digital versions, along with flexible pricing options, indicates a strategic effort to make PULTU accessible to a wide range of readers. As the publication continues to evolve, it may explore additional formats or expand its coverage to include other pressing global issues beyond traditional geopolitical concerns. The immediate focus, however, remains on providing clarity and context in a rapidly changing international landscape.