Bernard Maissen New President of the Foundation

25.06.2026 | from Schweizer Presserat

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Schweizer Presserat


25.06.2026, Bern - The Board of Trustees of the 'Swiss Press Council' Foundation elected Bernard Maissen as the new President of the Board of Trustees in early June 2026. The former Director of the Federal Office of Communications succeeds Daniel Hitzig, who resigned in early May.


Bernard Maissen, as a journalist and former Director of the OFCOM, possesses extensive knowledge of the Swiss media landscape from diverse perspectives, along with years of leadership experience. He is well-connected throughout all regions of the country. The newly elected President said, "I am pleased to contribute to securing and further developing this important institution alongside the supporters of the Swiss Press Council in an engaged committee. The Press Council contributes to the confidence in the Swiss media sector, which is currently facing significant challenges while also needing to harness the opportunities presented by new technologies."

Bernard Maissen worked as the Director of the Federal Office of Communications until his retirement in spring 2026. Prior to that, he led the Media Department as Deputy Director. Before joining the OFCOM, he was the Editor-in-Chief and a management board member of the Swiss Dispatch Agency (SDA), now 'Keystone-SDA'. Bernard Maissen also worked as a journalist in various roles for the 'Bündner Zeitung' and was the Editor-in- Chief of the Swiss Romansh radio of the SRG.

The Board of Trustees thanks the outgoing President, Daniel Hitzig, for his commitment to the Swiss Press Council.

Press Contact: Swiss Press Council
Conseil suisse de la presse
Consiglio svizzero della stampa
Office
PO Box 8
3000 Bern
+41 (0)77 405 43 37
media@presserat.ch
www.presserat.ch

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Schweizer Presserat


The Swiss Press Council serves both the public and media professionals as a complaints authority. It oversees adherence to the Journalists' Code of Conduct, the 'Declaration of the Rights and Duties of Journalists.'

The Press Council addresses issues of journalistic ethics upon complaint or independently. Complaints can be filed by anyone, and the process is free of charge. The panel makes judgments based on the Code and its issued guidelines.

In its ruling, the Press Council assesses and justifies whether and why a journalistic report in print, radio, television, or the internet violates the Journalists' Code - or not. This ensures the voluntary self-regulation of the media sector.

The Press Council also contributes to reflection and discussion on fundamental media ethical issues. Furthermore, it defends freedom of the press and freedom of expression.

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Source: Schweizer Presserat, Press release

Original article published on: Bernard Maissen neuer Präsident der Stiftung