Journalism on stage

Dear visitors to Gessnerallee, dear artists

Investigative journalism, socio-political issues and a behind-the-scenes look at journalism: the second series of our ‘Monthly Topics’ talk series begins in November. It kicks off on 4 November with CORRECTIV.Schweiz and the question ‘How can we prevent femicide?’. Book your tickets now!

Last autumn, we launched ‘Monthly Topics’ in collaboration with various news organisations.

After eight events, seven participating editorial teams – WAV, ‘Tsüri.ch’, REFLEKT, CORRECTIV.Schweiz, ‘Republik’, WOZ, SRF Investigativ and SRF Data – and around 600 attendees, we’re delighted that the discussion series is entering its second round in November.

The idea behind ‘Monthly Topics’ is simple: Once a month, on a Wednesday evening, a journalistic editorial team presents a current investigative piece or a socially pressing issue and decides for itself how it wishes to share and discuss this with the audience. Whether it’s a panel discussion, a lecture, video clips, a poetry slam or an immersive exhibition – the editorial teams are invited to experiment with different forms of storytelling and communication.

At a time when the flood of information is constantly growing, public debates are becoming increasingly fragmented and journalistic media are coming under ever-greater pressure, we want to create a space where complex topics can be explained in an accessible way, different perspectives can be brought together and questions can be discussed collectively.

The first series showed us just how great the interest in such events is. That’s why we’re continuing: with eight new episodes from November 2026 to June 2027, featuring both familiar and new editorial partners, relevant investigative reporting and stimulating discussions. And, of course, we’ll continue to host a drinks reception afterwards, where the audience, journalists and guests can engage in conversation with one another.

We’re looking forward to the second series – and to seeing you all there!

An overview of the first three episodes

‘How can we prevent femicides?’ – CORRECTIV.Schweiz

4 November, 7.30 pm

Around 115 women and girls have been killed in Switzerland over the past five years by men from within their family circle. Despite preventive measures, femicides continue to occur – including those committed by perpetrators already known to the authorities. CORRECTIV.Schweiz will discuss with Mathis Kelemen from the St. Gallen Cantonal Police, Pia Allemann from the BIF counselling centre and legal psychologist Astrid Rossegger what effective protection against violence might look like. More information and tickets

‘Palm oil, corporations and Switzerland’s colonial legacy’ – REFLEKT investigative team

2 December, 7.30 pm

What does Switzerland’s colonial history have to do with today’s palm oil production on Sumatra? The REFLEKT investigative team travelled to Indonesia and uncovered controversial land titles, decades-long conflicts and former Swiss plantations. The journalists will provide insights into their research and discuss how colonial land relations continue to have an impact today and what responsibility companies bear. More information and tickets

‘Babies to Order – The Swiss Adoption Business’ – Beobachter

13 January, 7.30 pm

For decades, children were placed for adoption in Switzerland under the guise of humanitarian aid. In a long-term investigation, the Beobachter uncovers an international web of child trafficking, unscrupulous intermediaries and authorities turning a blind eye. A discussion about a dark chapter in Swiss history and the lifelong consequences for those affected. More information and tickets

Premieres in November

‘MOUMOUNI LATE NIGHT SHOW’ – Fatima Moumouni & Guests

6 November, 8.00 pm

‘Take a look at Switzerland, too!’ The late-night show from the DIASBOAH platform is entering its third instalment – with a new look, at a new venue and, this time, with Fatima Moumouni as host. VOL. 3 explores a narrative of contemporary Switzerland that has not quite caught up with itself yet. Somewhere between gossip and political analysis, rants and high culture, resistance and entertainment. Featuring guests who have opinions and are making the world a better place. Afterwards, the party continues with MALEFI SOUNDSYSTEM. Tickets

‘Pigeons Shirt $9.99’ – PRICE

12 and 14 November, 8 pm on both nights

Zurich-based artist PRICE transforms the launch of his new album into a performative concert. Blending advertising, costume, set design, sound and scent, he creates a universe of desire, repetition and new music. Featuring T-shirts and plenty of pigeons. Buy tickets

‘strike’ – Wu Tsang, Moved by the Motion & NTGent

16 to 18 November, 8 pm each night

In their latest performance, Wu Tsang and Moved by the Motion deconstruct the myth of the operatic character Carmen and reassemble it using flamenco, live improvisation, sound and video. A multi-layered exploration of violence, rhythm and resistance. Buy tickets

Furthermore

Open Call: Workshop with Chiara Bersani

What does it mean to keep moving when standing still seems not to be an option? Taking the figure of the zombie as her starting point, Italian performance artist and choreographer Chiara Bersani invites us to rethink movement. The workshop on 27 November explores, both physically and conceptually, the possibility of moving forward. It is aimed at people who enjoy movement and would like to be part of a group, with or without mobility impairments and with or without performance experience. Registration closes on 31 October 2026. More information and registration

The WAV Research Collective, our partner editorial team for our ‘Monthly Topics’ series, has been exposing abuses for years, promoting transparency and supporting editorial teams with in-depth investigative research. To ensure this important work can continue and grow, WAV has launched a crowdfunding campaign to mark its 5th anniversary, which runs until the end of October. Further information and the opportunity to support WAV

We wish you a good second half of the week and a weekend filled with the odd exciting encounter and stimulating conversation.

The Gessnerallee team