As an academic involved in the teaching of media law to university students, some of whom intend to pursue careers in journalism, I am often dismayed by the lack of consequences for journalists who betray not only their readers but their entire profession.
I was heartened to read of the rapid action taken by public editor Don Wycliff in relation to the unprofessional (and unethical) acts committed by former Tribune foreign correspondent Uli Schmetzer (“From the Public Editor: How a journalist’s career came undone,” Commentary, March 5).
What I am ashamed of, however, is that Schmetzer is a fellow Australian who seemingly continues to contribute to racist stereotyping that has no place in a civilized society. I commend the positive stand taken by your newspaper.
