The accusations of misconduct by broadcaster Bert Huisjes apparently have an influence. The WNL boss is now temporarily resigning from his duties, he reports in an email to the editors. He hopes to make room for a good, independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding accusations about the broadcaster and his position.
WNL boss Bert Huisjes temporarily lays down work
It has been about a week since allegations were made to the house of WNL boss Bert Huisjes about misconduct. Because of him, there has been a culture of fear within the broadcaster for years and well-known former presenters also talk about their experiences to the AD, which conducted the research. Bert previously indicated that he found it “bad” to hear that former employees talked about the unpleasant experiences. He admitted that mistakes had certainly been made, but also felt it was his job to monitor the “editorial course”. That is why he sometimes interfered with the content of TV programs in a coercive way. However, he will not do anything for WNL for the time being. In an email to his editors, Bert reports that he is temporarily resigning from his work as editor-in-chief and director.
Independent research
Bert hopes not to get in the way of the investigation in this way. An independent, external investigation is currently being conducted into the circumstances surrounding accusations about the broadcaster and its position. The supervisory board has decided this. “Mistakes were made by me and the broadcaster in the construction of WNL, it could and should have been done differently,” he says in his statement. “As a result, people have gotten into trouble – I deeply regret that. The criticism has affected me and I take it seriously.” His decision was discussed with the supervisory board. He also makes the decision so that “reporters from the present” dare to express themselves more easily during the investigation. He hopes that there will be a “better structure” at WNL and a “safe and positive working environment”.
In the meantime, Bert wants to reflect a lot, have conversations and provide information that is requested. “I remain available for WNL to transfer current matters or if there are questions about continuity during my absence, if necessary,” says Bert.
Culture of fear
As mentioned, there has been a culture of fear at WNL since Bert took office in 2011. According to the accusations of (former) employees, Bert has regularly been guilty of intimidation, bullying, manipulative behavior and pregnancy discrimination since he was hired. He was therefore also known as ‘Bertlusconi’ and ‘Angry Bert’. The reporters also speak of a “poisoned nest”. A total of 25 people shared their experiences during AD’s research, including former presenters Leonie ter Braak, Merel Westrik, Roos Moggré and Eva Jinek.
In an interview with NTR radio program Kunststof, Eva indicates that she has mainly shared her experiences for the future generation. “I believe that young people who work in public broadcasting should be able to function in a normal working environment,” says Eva.
The supervisory board promises that they will soon come up with a plan on how Bert’s departure will be handled for the time being.
