Sven Kockelmann wins Sonja Barend Award for interview with Dick Schoof

Journalist Sven Kockelmann has been awarded the Sonja Barend Award for his interview with former Prime Minister Dick Schoof. The award, presented during the program Pauw & De Wit, recognizes the best television interview of the year.

Kockelmann won the prize after being selected by a jury of fifty journalists. The interview, conducted at the Catshuis for the WNL program Café Kockelmann, was noted for its personal nature rather than a political cross-examination. Kockelmann stated his goal was to understand the person behind the politician, noting that Schoof appeared emotional and open about his turbulent time leading the cabinet.

This marks the first time the award has been presented since the passing of Sonja Barend in April. Runner-up Eva Jinek was recognized for her interview with SGP leader Chris Stoffer, while Coen Verbraak took third place.