In-depth, exposing, tenacious. Report Mainz wants to find the "truth behind it". Thorough research that goes beyond the surface. Factual in tone, but uncompromising on substance. Pieces dig into structures and expose systemic problems.
What this format covers
●Social-policy failings and their causes
●Economic policy, lobbying, subsidy fraud
●Corruption in politics and administration
●Structural change and its consequences for citizens
●Health policy and care system
●Education policy and equal opportunity
●Consumer protection and product safety
What this format does NOT want
●Soft reportage or portraits
●Entertainment formats
●Nature documentaries
●Cultural topics without political angle
●Topics without investigative core or grievance
●Pure foreign reporting
Visual expectations
Magazine aesthetic: investigative interviews, documents, graphics, confrontations with those responsible. Victims have their say. Clear chain of evidence through visual proof. Factual, not sensationalist.
Expected exposé structure
Working title (clear, thesis-driven)
Thesis / central revelation in 2–3 sentences
Research findings and evidence
Protagonists / victims / those responsible
Planned confrontations and soundbites
Author, contact
Example productions
Report Mainz: Milliardengeschaeft Pflege — Wer profitiert?
Report Mainz: Mietwucher — Wie Konzerne den Markt beherrschen
Report Mainz: Subventionsbetrug — Steuergelder im Sumpf
Editorial notes
In-house production by the editorial team, external contributions only by arrangement/commission. Report Mainz (since 1964) is the SWR political magazine on Das Erste. Programme consists of several pieces per edition (approx. 8–12 minutes each). Focus on economic and social policy. External journalists can pitch topics; Editorial team decides on commission.
Ready to pitch to ARD (SWR)?
The Pitch Doctor generates a format-compliant exposé tailored to ARD Report Mainz's exact editorial expectations.