A popular RTBF debate program, *C’est vous qui le dites*, is at teh center of a growing controversy in Belgium, as internal concerns over journalistic standards reach the national parliament. The show, hosted by Cyril Detaeye, faces allegations of presenting “unverified information” and a “lack of context” raised by the broadcaster’s journalism society, sparking a debate over the balance between open discussion and responsible reporting on public airwaves [[1]]. The public broadcaster and a key minister are now defending the program’s format amid increasing scrutiny.
A debate show on Belgian broadcaster RTBF, C’est vous qui le dites, is facing scrutiny after the network’s journalism society raised concerns about “ethical failings,” including “unverified information,” “lack of context,” and a “lack of experts.” The show, hosted by Cyril Detaeye, has sparked internal controversy and a public debate about journalistic standards.
RTBF expressed regret that the internal discussion became public, stating that the show’s team and production are conducting “a complete analysis to provide objective answers to the points raised by the SDJ.” The network added that this analysis aims to address criticisms that “do not reflect reality.”
The public service broadcaster also emphasized the show’s success, attributing it to offering “a plurality of viewpoints” on a daily basis, “regardless of the debate topic.”
“Everyone Has the Right to Speak”
The controversy has reached the Belgian Parliament, where MP Chris Massaki questioned Jacqueline Galant about the public broadcaster’s ethical standards, noting that the internal criticisms revealed a “deep unease” within RTBF.
In response, the minister strongly defended the program. “I would like to recall that in the RTBF management contract, there is an obligation to encourage debate and give a voice to all citizens and interact with all audiences,” the minister said. “I believe that the RTBF management has confirmed that the program C’est vous qui le dites meets these objectives of the management contract.”
She continued: “I think that the management and myself are on the same wavelength regarding this right to airtime and this program, which is followed by a huge number of viewers. Everyone has the right to speak.”
‘C’est vous qui le dites’ : ce format d’émission grand public a-t-il sa place sur la RTBF ?
The minister concluded: “As long as I am Minister of Media, I will fight to ensure that all citizens, and not just a small microcosm, have a voice in public media; that they finance, no matter who they are or what they believe.”
