Michael Kuenne: Videojournalist Capturing Global Stories
My journey has taken me across diverse landscapes and into the lives of extraordinary individuals, from influential political figures to celebrated cultural icons.
Living in Berlin, I collaborate with major international news outlets, producing high-quality editorial videos and photographs that resonate globally. My work aims to illuminate the human experience, fostering understanding and empathy through powerful visual storytelling.
Explore the range and depth of my video journalism through the Associated Press (AP) Video Hub.
The Associated Press Video Hub is a trusted platform that provides high-quality, editorially rigorous video content. By showcasing my work here, I ensure that my videos reach a global audience and maintain the highest standards of journalism.
Germany: Protesters Gather in Berlin to Commemorate Mahsa Amini's Death
Protesters assembled in Berlin on Saturday, September 14, 2024, to mark the second anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death, whose passing in Iranian police custody sparked global outrage and advocacy for women's rights. The demonstration began at Pariser Platz in front of the Brandenburg Gate. Participants held signs and chanted slogans like "Woman, Life, Freedom" and "Death to the mullahs." Some signs called for an end to executions in Iran and demanded the release of political activists imprisoned there. Speeches were delivered emphasizing solidarity with the Iranian people and condemning human rights violations. Organized under the motto "Jina Mahsa Amini Day," the protest honored Amini's memory and highlighted the ongoing struggle for women's rights and freedom in Iran. Demonstrators called for an end to violence and oppressive policies, chanting, "No to murder! No to crime! No to the Islamist regime in Iran!" Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old Iranian Kurdish woman, died on September 16, 2022, in Tehran after being detained by Iran's morality police for allegedly not wearing the hijab according to government standards. Eyewitnesses claimed she was severely beaten, leading to her death, a charge Iranian authorities have denied. Her death ignited some of the largest protests in Iran since 2009, with demonstrations spreading globally. The movement demands an end to compulsory hijab laws and advocates for broader human rights and freedoms in Iran. Protesters also urged an end to executions in Iran and showed support for political activists behind bars. Signs reading "Stop executions in Iran" and "Freedom for political prisoners" were prominently displayed. Similar commemorations and protests were held in cities worldwide, reflecting the international community's ongoing concern over human rights issues in Iran.
Soundbite 1: "Today is the anniversary of the murder of Jina Mahsa Amini; she was brutally killed two years ago by the so-called morality police in Iran," said Hamun, a member of the Echo Movement Berlin. "This murder, this crime, triggered a nationwide wave of protests, the largest since the beginning of the Islamic Republic, and it continues to this day. The people in Iran, especially the women, are resisting the violence of the regime."
Soundbite 2 with Peter Heidt, a member of the German Bundestag representing the Free Democratic Party (FDP) and a human rights advocate. We support this freedom movement, but I must be quite honest - we must do even more here in Germany. We have banned and closed the Islamic Center in Hamburg, but that is only one step. Further steps must follow, and actions must also be taken within the European Union so that the criminals who are active there in Iran do not achieve lasting success.
Germany: Ambassador Harish Joins Indian Community in Berlin for 78th Independence Day Parade
The Indian community in Berlin marked India's 78th Independence Day with a vibrant Bharat Parade at the Brandenburg Gate on August 10, 2024, organized by the Indian Cultural Community Center (INDCC). The event, which began at 10 AM, brought together hundreds of participants in colorful traditional attire, reflecting India's diverse cultures and states. The celebration, aimed at showcasing the unity and diversity of Indian culture, featured a lively array of performances. Participants filled the Pariser Platz with the vibrant colors of India, creating a spectacular display against the historic backdrop of the Brandenburg Gate. Adding to the occasion's significance, Ambassador Parvathaneni Harish, India's Ambassador to Germany, addressed the gathering. In his speech, Ambassador Harish highlighted the importance of cultural heritage and the strong bilateral ties between India and Germany. Ambassador Harish, who assumed his role in November 2021, brought a wealth of experience from his distinguished diplomatic career, including key roles in economic diplomacy and multilateral relations. Ambassador Harish's speech resonated with the community. He stressed the importance of unity, cultural pride, and the enduring relationship between India and Germany.
Interview with Ambassador Harish, Transcript:
"For the large, growing community here, it's a happy location to celebrate this with other members of the community. They are very much integrated into the society, but they also have very strong national and patriotic feelings towards India. This is the location for them to bring the two strengths of the cultures of India and Germany together, and it gives them an occasion to celebrate Independence Day here in Berlin. The vast and growing Indian community includes a lot of students, whose numbers are increasing in Germany, so I'm very happy to interact with a lot of young people and students here."
Germany: Thousands Rally in Berlin Against Iranian Elections
Germany: Mayor Kai Wegner Attends the 30th Annual Lesbian and Gay City Festival in Berlin
The 30th Annual Lesbian and Gay City Festival in Berlin saw a significant turnout on July 20, 2024, with thousands of attendees gathering to celebrate diversity, equality, and inclusion. The event, held in the Schoeneberg district, featured a vibrant mix of activities, performances, and cultural displays that highlighted the rich tapestry of Berlin's LGBTQ+ community. Berlin's Governing Mayor, Kai Wegner, made a notable appearance at the festival, reinforcing his administration's commitment to supporting LGBTQ+ rights. Wegner joined the festival for a tour, during which he engaged with various associations, initiatives, and project presentations. "We come together here to celebrate, to meet as a community, and to welcome people from all over Berlin and Germany," Wegner said. "It's through these exchanges that we celebrate and also send a clear signal from the Rainbow Kiez, from the Rainbow Capital, that Berlin is a colorful, diverse city. Our city's diversity is its greatest strength." Wegner announced a comprehensive action plan adopted by the Senate, consisting of 300 individual measures to support the LGBTQ+ community. These measures, he noted, are diverse and forward-thinking. "For the first time, we have appointed a queer spokesperson in the Senate to advocate for the interests of the queer community," Wegner stated. Additionally, he highlighted the establishment of a round table to address violence and hate crimes. The mayor expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of hate crimes targeting LGBTQ+ individuals. "The numbers worry me a lot. More and more gay, lesbian, and trans people are being attacked, spat on, humiliated, and beaten. These are things that I will not tolerate in this city. Hate crime and violence, in general, have no place here," Wegner declared emphatically. "Everyone should be able to be who they are here and, above all, love who they want. That is the most important thing for a diverse city, and I stand by that."
Germany: Hundreds of Thousands March in Berlin for 46th Christopher Street Day
Despite inclement weather, hundreds of thousands gathered in Berlin on Saturday, July 27, 2024, to celebrate the 46th Christopher Street Day (CSD) and to advocate for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community. The event, one of Europe's largest celebrations for the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, intersex, and queer (LGBTIQ) community, was marked by vibrant parades, speeches, and a renewed call for democracy and diversity. The demonstration began at Leipziger Straße, proceeding through Nollendorfplatz, culminating at the iconic Victory Column. Organizers had anticipated up to 500,000 participants. The march, which included 75 trucks and approximately 100 walking groups, highlighted the motto "Only Strong Together - For Democracy and Diversity." Initially dampened by morning rain, the parade saw participants swapping umbrellas for sunglasses as the weather improved in the afternoon. Christopher Street Day commemorates the 1969 Stonewall Riots in New York City's Greenwich Village, a pivotal event in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Berlin's first CSD in 1979 saw 450 participants and has since grown to become a major European event, promoting visibility and equal rights for the LGBTIQ community. This year's CSD also underscored the rising concerns within the community regarding the increasing influence of right-wing parties like the AfD. The CSD Berlin marks the pinnacle of the city's Pride Month, which includes numerous events ranging from film screenings to Pride Boat Parties to foster visibility and community support across Berlin and beyond.
Germany: Pro-Palestinian Motorcade and Pro-Israel Counter-Protest Clash in Berlin
Tensions flared today, on September 8, 2024, at Wittenberg Platz in Berlin as a pro-Palestinian motorcade clashed with a pro-Israel counter-protest. The demonstration, which started as a motorized procession of pro-Palestinian activists on cars and motorbikes, was met with a counter-presence of pro-Israel demonstrators waving Israeli and IDF flags. Pro-Palestinian protesters, waving flags and shouting slogans such as "Israel is a terrorist state" and "Baby killer Israel," accused Israel of committing genocide in Gaza. The motorcade passed by the pro-Israel rally. Berlin police maintained a heavy presence, deploying several units to control the situation. Authorities detained several pro-Palestinian demonstrators even before the motorcade began to prevent further escalation. The protests come amidst ongoing global debates over the Israel-Hamas war, with emotions running high in communities around the world.
Germany: Tech Giants Showcase Innovations at IFA 2024 in Berlin
The International Funkausstellung (IFA) 2024, one of the world's largest consumer electronics and home appliance trade shows, is in full swing at Messe Berlin on September 7, 2024. From September 6 to September 10, the event has drawn visitors from 139 countries. More than 1,800 exhibitors showcase the latest technological innovations. Celebrating its 100th anniversary, IFA 2024 has brought together tech giants like Google, LG, Samsung, Bosch, Miele, and Electrolux. Exhibitors are unveiling cutting-edge advancements in smart home technology, consumer electronics, and home appliances. Highlights include flying cars, robots, and the latest fitness and digital health trends, underscoring the tech industry's evolving nature. Keynote speakers and product launches have been a major draw, with new developments in AI, mobility, and content creation taking center stage. The IFA show floor covers various tech sectors, including audio, computing, gaming, and digital health. Companies such as Microsoft, Huawei, and Lenovo have drawn significant crowds eager to explore the latest in computing and connectivity. This year's event also highlights sustainability and inclusivity, with IFA Next serving as a hub for startups focused on eco-friendly solutions and technologies that improve everyday life.
Germany: ShowStoppers IFA 2024 Press Event Unveils Next-Gen Tech in Berlin
On September 5, 2024, tech companies from around the world gathered at Messe Berlin for ShowStoppers, a press event kicking off the annual IFA (Internationale Funkausstellung) trade show, one of the world’s largest consumer electronics exhibitions. The event provided an exclusive opportunity for global leaders and startups to showcase cutting-edge technologies in a room with hundreds of journalists. The Exhibitors ranged from major international brands to emerging startups, all vying to secure media attention and coverage ahead of IFA 2024, which officially begins tomorrow. During the three-hour event, participants had the chance to deliver product pitches, network with influencers, and foster new business opportunities. IFA 2024, scheduled from September 6 to September 10 at Messe Berlin, will bring together over 1,800 exhibitors and more than 180,000 visitors, making it the largest consumer electronics show in the world. Known for driving innovation in sectors such as robotics, mobility, gaming, and home appliances, IFA showcases the latest trends and breakthroughs in consumer electronics.
Transcript Dave Leon, Partner Business Development at ShowStoppers:
"We've been doing this now for seventeen years. Our goal here is to create opportunities for small to medium companies, including startups, to meet journalists, here at the south end of the fairgrounds. We know from history that there are large, big companies here at IFA, that have large press teams— for example, Qualcomm or Samsung— but how are the small companies going to meet the journalists, create more brand awareness? We do it here at ShowStoppers, for three hours. This room is filled with journalists from over 80 countries, meeting more than 75 companies tonight. We do this all over the world. Our next event is in Las Vegas, at CES. From there, we move on to Mobile World Congress. We do events in the Middle East, as well as in Asia. This is what we’ve been doing for more than 25 years, and we look forward to continuing at other events all over the world."
Germany: Chancellor Olaf Scholz Holds Dialogue With Citizens Addresses Migration and Far-Right Surge
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz engaged in a candid discussion with citizens on Wednesday evening, September 4, 2024, during the latest edition of "KanzlerGESPRAECH," held at the UFA-Fabrik in Berlin. The event, which was live-streamed on the government's official website, offered a platform for the Chancellor to hear directly from the public about their concerns and expectations of the government. Scholz addressed many pressing issues, including the ongoing debate over migration and the rise of far-right politics in Germany. Responding to questions from citizens, he touched on the challenges posed by the influx of refugees, particularly those fleeing the war in Ukraine. Scholz acknowledged migration's strain on Germany but emphasized the need for a measured approach. He cautioned against believing all claims made during times of uncertainty, indirectly referring to the rhetoric from far-right groups. "Don't trust those who make grand promises during times of need," he urged, warning of political movements that offer oversimplified solutions to complex problems. The remarks appeared aimed at countering the growing influence of the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, which has capitalized on concerns over migration and security. In addition to migration, Scholz discussed deportation policies, stating that the government is taking steps to ensure that individuals who commit crimes will be deported. His comments come amid ongoing debates about tightening Germany's immigration laws and addressing public safety concerns. The dialogue provided a rare opportunity for citizens to engage directly with the Chancellor as he continues to navigate the political challenges posed by the far-right surge and the refugee crisis.
Germany: Thousands Gather in Berlin for Zug der Liebe Techno Parade
erlin's streets came alive on August 31, 2024, as thousands of techno enthusiasts marched through the city for the annual "Zug der Liebe" (Train of Love) demonstration. The event, which has become a staple of Berlin's cultural and social calendar, aimed to promote tolerance, diversity, and solidarity under the theme "Bass Unites." The parade, which began at 1 p.m. at Mauerpark, saw 15 vibrant trucks, each representing different collectives and social organizations, making their way through key city streets, including Landsberger Allee, Unter den Linden, and ending in Kreuzberg's Oranienstrasse. The event also clarified that any individuals attempting to disrupt the parade with extremist or conspiracy-driven ideologies would be immediately removed. Since its inception in 2015, the "Zug der Liebe" has grown from a grassroots initiative into a major event, drawing attention to various social causes. This year, participating groups included local charities like the Berliner Tiertafel, Gangway e.V., and several other organizations dedicated to social welfare, animal rights, and youth engagement.
Transcript of Soundbite: Jacky-Oh Weinhaus: For me, this is an important project because it brings together so many different people, regardless of their background, age, gender, sexual orientation, or religious beliefs, to show that living together like this is possible without discrimination, without hate, and exclusion.
Germany: Protesters in Berlin Rally Against Antisemitism and Demand Hostage Release
On August 25, 2024, people gathered at Pariser Platz, in front of the Brandenburg Gate, to protest against antisemitism and call for the immediate release of hostages held by Hamas. The demonstrators marched from the iconic gate to the Berlin Cathedral and were seen waving several Israeli flags and holding large banners. One prominent banner read, "Gegen jeden Antisemitismus, gegen linken, rechten und islamistischen Antisemitismus" (Against all antisemitism, against left-wing, right-wing, and Islamist antisemitism), reflecting the protesters' broad condemnation of antisemitism from all political and ideological spectrums. Another banner demanded, "Bring them home now," referring to hostages taken by Hamas following the attack on October 7, 2023.
As the crowd moved through central Berlin, they chanted slogans such as "Bring the hostages back" and "Free Gaza from Hamas."