Home
← Back to Home

Is Neue Zürcher Zeitung Objective? Media Bias, Political Leaning, and Reliability

3 min read
Last Updated: January 2026

Neue Zürcher Zeitung Overview and Political Bias

Critics often characterize NZZ as a bastion of center-right, ordoliberal thought. Under current leadership, some observers suggest it has adopted a more conservative, polemical stance against progressive social policies and German migration trends. While proponents praise its intellectual depth, detractors argue its editorial line increasingly aligns with right-wing cultural critiques.

Standpoint Assessment
Overall political leaning Center Right
Estimated number of readers 600,000
Israel support Israel supporter
Use of loaded / emotional language Low
Target Audience Elite / Business Professionals

Neue Zürcher Zeitung History

Established in 1780 by Salomon Gessner, NZZ is one of the oldest continuously published newspapers in the world. Originally titled Zürcher Zeitung, it adopted its current name in 1821. It has historically served as a voice for Swiss liberalism, maintaining a reputation for rigorous, high-quality international reporting and analysis.

World News Map

News Today interactive world news map

Who owns Neue Zürcher Zeitung?

NZZ is owned by the AG für die Neue Zürcher Zeitung, a publicly traded company. Ownership is intentionally restricted to approximately 20,000 shareholders, none of whom can hold more than 1% of votes. This structure aims to ensure editorial independence and prevent influence from single powerful entities or investors.

Similar newspapers