Amidst bias allegations, ABC’s David Anderson stands by the network’s balanced coverage of Middle Eastern issues.
In a recent interview on ABC RN, David Anderson, the managing director of the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), firmly denied allegations that the national broadcaster is swayed by Israeli or Palestinian influences.
Addressing the issue, Anderson emphasised the ABC’s commitment to impartial and accurate reporting, dismissing the notion that the broadcaster favours either side in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
“We are neither pro-Israeli nor pro-Palestinian in our reporting; our goal is always to remain objective and impartial,”
said Anderson. He underscored the ABC’s focus on maintaining accuracy in its journalism, a principle he believes the organisation consistently upholds.
Contrary to suggestions that recent events have eroded public confidence in the ABC, Anderson highlighted that trust levels remain high. He reported that 80% of the audience still places their trust in the broadcaster.
“Trust, relevance, and value to the Australian people are our core principles. I don’t perceive any systemic bias at the ABC during my tenure as managing director,”
The conversation also touched upon the resignation of Nour Haydar, an ABC political reporter. Haydar’s departure earlier this month was reportedly due to her concerns over the network’s coverage of the conflict between Israel and Hamas and the treatment of culturally diverse staff within the ABC.
Anderson addressed these concerns, stressing the importance of supporting journalists in their workplace.
“It’s essential that all our journalists feel supported. This is something we take seriously, especially when it comes to handling culturally sensitive issues,”
In response to allegations of institutional racism within ABC, Anderson was unequivocal in his denial, stating that the broadcaster enforces a strict zero-tolerance policy against racism.
