Roos Moggré, the renowned Dutch presenter, recently reflected on the tumultuous year faced by her former WNL boss, Bert Huisjes, highlighting the challenges and the need for change within the workplace culture at the broadcasting organization.
During the 'Casa Di Beau Winterspecial' aired on RTL 4, Moggré expressed her sympathy for Huisjes, stating, "I wish no one to have a year like he has had." Her comments came as she looked back on the controversies surrounding WNL and the subsequent departure of Huisjes following adverse reports about the organization's workplace culture.
Having worked at WNL from 2014 to 2018, Moggré was one of the former employees who publicly aired concerns over the unsafe working conditions, including experiences of pregnancy discrimination. Reflecting on her tenure, she remarked, "I believe you need to stand for something. You can voice when things are not right." This sentiment resonates deeply as it sheds light on the personal drama associated with such workplace issues.
Moggré underscored the emotional toll these controversies took on individuals involved, particularly Huisjes. After the publication of adverse reports, Huisjes initially stepped back from his role as editor-in-chief before eventually resigning. She remarked, "I realize it must have been very unpleasant for Bert Huisjes, and I truly wish no one else experiences a year like he did. I can only picture him coming home feeling exceptionally unhappy about it all." Her empathy highlights the complexity of workplace dynamics, commenting on the human aspect behind professional mismanagement.
Despite the difficult circumstances, Moggré maintained limited contact with Huisjes last year, primarily through messaging. When asked if she would engage with him again, she conveyed, "Everyone deserves a second chance." This statement encapsulates her broader belief in the importance of forgiveness, even amid very public controversies.
Moggré's reflections are part of the larger narrative surrounding media professionals and their experiences within their work environments. Following the well-documented Van Rijn report, which criticized WNL's culture, she revealed her astonishment but not surprise at the organization's depiction, stating it was "the worst child of the class."
Throughout the discussion, Moggré reemphasized her commitment to ensuring younger colleagues can work within safe environments. She emphasized, "I'm not just here to keep my mouth shut as a journalist. When things go wrong, we need to speak up. Otherwise, nothing changes." This call for transparency and accountability is increasingly relevant as the media faces scrutiny over its own internal practices.
Delving more deeply, Moggré addressed the challenges faced by those involved, highlighting the delicate balance between holding high-ranking individuals accountable and recognizing the personal consequences of such actions. Her comments come at a time when there is growing awareness about workplace safety, particularly for those who feel pressured to remain silent.
Moggré's comprehensive commentary presents not only her own experiences but also serves as a reminder of the broader responsibilities media figures have to advocate for change. With Huisjes’ departure marking significant organizational shifts, her personal insights underline the urgency for progressive workplace reforms.
Ending her reflections, Moggré reinforced the necessity of fostering safe working environments, marking her own transition to AVROTROS as one grounded on the lessons learned from her past. She stated her goal is to work toward ensuring the younger generation of media workers can thrive free from fear of harassment or discrimination.
The recent revelations shed light on the importance of accountability and support within media organizations, aligning with Moggré’s assertive position on workplace safety.
By advocating for necessary changes, Moggré contributes to the dialogue surrounding personal and professional ethics within the media industry. Her reflections on Bert Huisjes serve as both a commentary on their shared history and the road forward for WNL and similar organizations.
Overall, Roos Moggré’s insights provide valuable lessons for media organizations grappled with transparency and accountability, pointing toward the pressing need for safer workplaces.