The Essentials. What we have adapted – and why

Axel Springer is a transatlantic company with shared values. These are formulated in the Essentials, which are even enshrined in Axel Springer’s articles of association and to which our employees are committed. There have always been adjustments and additions to the Essentials. For example, when the geopolitical situation changed for the better – and the Essential on reunification became obsolete. Or when new threats to freedom emerged – such as in 2001, when we added a fifth Essential with the transatlantic alliance. Or in 2015, when we added religious extremism to our rejection of all forms of political totalitarianism.

Now, too, there are slight adjustments. On the one hand, these are again due to political developments or make it clear that today, more than ever, we view the world from an international perspective.

1. We stand up for freedom, free speech, the rule of law, and democracy.
   In the first Essential, the term freedom of speech was added against the backdrop of increasing restrictions on freedom of expression in various countries. It fits perfectly into the series of our most important values: standing up for freedom, the rule of law, and democracy.
2. We support the right of existence of the State of Israel and oppose all forms of anti-Semitism.
   None of our values have been misinterpreted as often, even maliciously, as those formulated in the second Essential. We stand for Israel’s right to exist, which for us is non-negotiable. However, this expressly does not mean that an Israeli government cannot be criticized for its policies. Against the backdrop of increasing antisemitism, even in democratic states, we have once again expressed our clear intolerance of hatred toward Jews.
3. We advocate the alliance between the United States of America and Europe.
   The third Essential also applies: The alliance between the US and Europe is fundamental to us. However, this does not mean that government actions in the US or European countries – especially when they drive a wedge between this alliance – cannot be criticized.
4. We uphold the principles of a free market economy.
   The fourth Essential has been adapted to reflect our international workforce. The “social market economy,” coined by Ludwig Erhard, is a German term.
5. We reject political and religious extremism and all forms of discrimination.
   In the fifth Essential, we want to express even more clearly, concisely, and yet comprehensively what we oppose: extremism of any kind and discrimination in any form. This naturally includes racism and sexual discrimination.