Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen’s appearance on “The Great Junior Bake Off” is facing scrutiny after documents revealed that DR (Danish Broadcasting Corporation) allowed her office to influence the program’s theme and content. This revelation has sparked criticism from media experts and former editors-in-chief, who argue that it compromises DR’s impartiality and public service obligation.
The controversy stems from an email exchange between DR and the Prime Minister’s Office, where DR solicited input on potential themes for the show featuring Frederiksen. The email suggested themes like “junior bakers’ future dreams for the world,” a “Denmark theme,” or topics related to “anti-bullying/good tone,” even adding a suggestion of “a similar topic that is also close to the Prime Minister’s heart.” This last suggestion is deemed highly inappropriate, according to Mark Blach-Ørsten, professor of journalism at Roskilde University (RUC), who claims it gives the Prime Minister an opportunity to present herself favorably to a large part of the Danish population.
Critics argue that DR’s actions blur the lines between the Prime Minister’s political power and the public, undermining the media’s role in critically examining power relations. Michael Dyrby, a former editor-in-chief of B.T. and news director at TV 2, believes DR made a “bow to its own editorial decisions” by allowing the Prime Minister’s Office to influence the theme. Similarly, former DR director Mette Bock argues that a prime minister “should be elevated into a class of her own” and not participate in entertainment programs that could undermine her credibility.
Lisbeth Knudsen, editor-in-chief of Mandag Morgen, questioned the Prime Minister’s priorities, finding it “out of place” that she would agree to participate in such a program, especially given the difficulty media outlets face in securing interviews with her. Knudsen stated that it seems completely misplaced for the Prime Minister to judge cakes when a historic crisis in Europe is taking place.
In response to the criticism, the Prime Minister’s Office stated that it is common practice to have dialogue with external parties in connection with the Prime Minister’s visits and interviews. Christian Rabjerg Madsen, the Social Democrats’ political spokesperson, called the criticism a “misreading of what politics actually is,” arguing that it is important for the Prime Minister to participate in formats that appeal to children and young people.
DR acknowledged the criticism, with Eva Kvist, head of department for DR’s Lifestyle and Facts department, stating that it is common practice to discuss and adjust ideas with guests on “The Great Junior Bake Off.” Kvist added that the editorial staff ultimately has the final say in the program’s content and that DR always considers feedback received after programs are broadcast.