Public Affairs at Bertelsmann

Our public affairs managers offer political decision-makers access to expert dialog partners, communicate the latest positions and facts, and provide helpful information. We develop our positions in internal task forces and through membership in organizations, working with in-house as well as external experts. In order for Bertelsmann to have an informed position on specific issues, it is crucial that the public affairs officers coordinate with and between the divisions.

Besides functioning as a discussion forum, “think tank,” database and committee of experts, the offices in Berlin and Brussels and the public affairs officers in the divisions introduce important policymakers to Bertelsmann’s various media services. This includes presenting the international media house’s many different cultural activities and new digital businesses in Bertelsmann’s key markets.

Bertelsmann SE & Co. KGaA has registered in the Transparency Register of the European Union, and has signed its Code of Conduct.

Mission Statement

We are reliable partners on all matters of political communication. We represent and communicate the media, social and economic policy interests and positions of Bertelsmann SE & Co. KGaA.

As Public Affairs professionals, we contribute our expertise to debates and decision-making processes inside and outside the company. We maintain an open dialogue with our stakeholders in politics, business and civil society and, like them, are committed to the values of the European Union.

Our key objectives include ensuring competitive framework conditions, respecting and protecting intellectual property, safeguarding the freedom, independence and ability of the media to refinance themselves, promoting an innovation-friendly and responsible data and AI policy, and fostering cultural and journalistic diversity.

The basis of our Public Affairs work is the Bertelsmann Essentials: Creativity and Entrepreneurship.