All big media have a daily editorial meeting in which topics are selected. The selection is made in accordance with the medium and its readership, viewers or listeners. Public radio and public TV have to fulfil their public service contract.
When it comes to political controversial topics and elections, all media try to report fairly, with no bias and considering both sides, pro and con – according to the interviewees. Current findings also show that Swiss media have a tendency to focus on the powerful. Established power holders get more room in the media. This is legitimated insofar as they have relevance in the society or in the specific discourse. Journalism for the weaker (“anwaltschaftlicher” Journalismus) is quite rare.
Furthermore journalistic criteria are important. not every topic on the political agenda is suited to every medium. Especially media with a tendency towards “boulevard” journalism select according to the assumed wishes of their audience.
