- Twenty-seven contenders vying for the Grimme Online Honor.
From historical archives to game-changing investigations: 27 internet sites are in the running for the Grimme Online Award this year. Out of almost 1000 submissions, the jury has chosen up to 27 nominees for up to eight awards, which will be awarded on October 16 in Marl, in the Ruhr region, as announced by the Grimme Institute. The public can also cast a vote for an additional winner.
The Grimme Online Awards almost didn't happen this year due to financial shortcomings at the Grimme Institute. Strict budget cuts and the pursuit of additional funding allowed the awards to go on later in the year. Despite the reduced submission period, the judges noticed no lack of quality or quantity, they declared.
The Grimme Online Award is a highly esteemed prize for exceptional online journalism in Germany and is given out in various categories.
Utilizing the net as an archive
Notably, many of the nominated sites make use of the internet's abilities as an archive and memory space, exploring the past in various ways: Topics range from the era of National Socialism, the history of East Germany, to recent events like the 2021 flood disaster in western Germany.
Among the nominees are a series of podcasts that used the internet beyond the standard audio format, as well as Instagram offerings and various TikTok channels - from popular garden-lovers with large followings to elaborate productions commissioned by public broadcasters.
Impactful Correctiv investigations in the running
Due to its significant impact, Correctiv media's investigation "Conspiracy against Germany" is in contention for the Special category. No research in recent times has moved more people than the disclosure of the Potsdam meeting of right-wing circles, it was stated in justification. The disclosure of the meeting sparked widespread outrage and a series of large protest rallies in several cities at the beginning of the year.
The Grimme Online Awards will be held in October in Marl, located in the Ruhr area, celebrating exceptional online journalism. Some of the nominated sites in the Ruhr area utilize the internet as an archive, delving into various historical topics.
