On Sunday, July 2024, a live television interview on ARD, a German public broadcaster, with Alice Weidel, co-leader of the Alternative für Deutschland (AfD), was significantly disrupted by protesters in Berlin. The demonstration, featuring groups including Omas gegen Rechts and Zentrum für Politische Schönheit, included loud shouting, whistling, and the playing of an anti-AfD song from a bus. Parts of the interview were inaudible due to the noise. The AfD has called for a re-run of the interview.

ARD acknowledged the incident, stating that maintaining an uninterrupted interview flow is crucial for both the broadcaster and the audience. A spokesperson said that they would review procedures and take precautions to prevent similar disruptions. The broadcaster stated that they had not received prior notification of the protest, and the Berlin police reported no arrests but are considering legal action against the demonstrators. Journalist Markus Preiß described Weidel as "sporting" for continuing the interview despite the disruptions. Weidel herself posted about the incident on social media, framing it as evidence of bias against the AfD.

ARD faced criticism for not holding the interview in a studio, with some arguing the broadcaster was responsible for ensuring equal conditions for all parties interviewed. Reporters Without Borders suggested a tax on internet companies to help public broadcasters combat pressure from far-right parties. The AfD became Germany's largest opposition party following elections in February 2024.

Impact Statement: The incident highlights the challenges faced by German public broadcasters in covering far-right political figures amid rising polarization and the potential need for enhanced security measures during interviews.