Shock in Graz: School shooting shakes school – media under fire!

Shock in Graz: School shooting shakes school – media under fire!

On Tuesday, a tragic incident at a school in Graz shocked the nation. A shooting spree left several people dead and injured, prompting the police to secure the situation as quickly as possible and set up a collection point for relatives. While the investigation was ongoing, the media bombarded its readers with speculation and disturbing images. Bachhausen.de reports that a site close to the FPÖ in particular wanted to grab tons of video material - including from a 16-year-old student who was supposed to provide exclusive information and videos. These videos, which show seriously injured and dead people, were accompanied by depressing music, which further raised the tide of discussion about media ethics.

Incomprehensibly, a lot of such content was also shared by well-known media such as Oe24. They were later forced to delete the videos and deny publication. In the media ethics debate, vehement criticism is voiced - not only about the way in which the perpetrator was reported, but also about the violation of the personal rights of the victims and their relatives. As oeaw.ac.at explains, the challenges of reporting on school shootings are enormous. The responsibility is high in order to avoid glorifying the perpetrator or possible imitation acts.

Media responsibility and ethical standards

Communications researcher Matthias Karmasin urges sensitivity in reporting. “The media should follow the instructions of the investigating authorities and only publish verified information,” he says, emphasizing that naming the names and pictures of the perpetrators is problematic in order to avoid confusion and unnecessary burdens for innocent people. The frightening incident in Graz should be a call for all media to act responsibly and focus attention on the victims instead of the perpetrators' actions.

Experts warn that fatal heroization of the perpetrator could further inflame the dangers of copycat criminals. Youth psychiatrists emphasize that the potential for identification with perpetrators like the one in Graz can direct attention in an unwanted direction. Rumors also spread about the possible bullying of the perpetrator and the existence of a farewell letter, which remained completely unconfirmed. This could significantly contribute to misinformation and increase the pain of loved ones immeasurably, without any solid basis.

Insights into media reflection

A look back at past mass shootings like the one in Munich shows how strong the media's dramaturgical approach is. Literaturkritik.de describes how reporting on David S.'s shooting spree led to an intensive discussion about violent video games and redefined the role of the media in such acts. The central concern remains that school shootings are not treated as media spectacles, but rather as serious social problems that need to be understood and prevented.

Overall, it remains important that the media reflect on their role in society and adhere to ethical standards - not only to maintain the trust of the population, but also to do justice to the injustice suffered by the victims. This is the only way to initiate a constructive discussion about prevention and the suffering of those affected.