Radio Dreyeckland: Bridging Borders with Broadcasting
Radio Dreyeckland is a unique radio station that operates across two countries, France and Germany. With two stations operating under the same name, one in Mulhouse, Alsace, France, and the other in Freiburg im Breisgau, Germany, Radio Dreyeckland has a rich history and a mission to connect listeners across borders.
Origins in Resistance
The genesis of Radio Dreyeckland lies in the 1970s, when opponents of the Fessenheim Nuclear Power Plant in France launched Radio Verte Fessenheim. In 1981, the station was renamed 'Dreyeckland,' reflecting its location at the crossroads of France, Germany, and Switzerland. During the 1980s and early 1990s, Swiss collaborators joined the French Dreyeckland team, broadcasting to listeners in Basel and its surroundings using the transmitter in France due to the lack of a Swiss license.
Parallel Paths in Freiburg
Meanwhile, across the border in Germany, Dreyeckland Freiburg emerged as a pirate station in 1985. Operating in the same spirit as the French station, it aimed to provide independent and alternative programming to listeners in the Freiburg area. In 1988, Dreyeckland Freiburg obtained a legal license, becoming a separate station but maintaining its connection to its French counterpart.
Cross-Border Cooperation
Today, both stations operate independently but collaborate on joint projects, including the production of cross-border programs and the exchange of journalists. Their schedules feature a diverse range of content, from news and current affairs to music, culture, and local issues.
Community Engagement
Radio Dreyeckland is deeply embedded in its communities. It provides a platform for local artists, activists, and organizations to share their voices and engage with the public. The station also organizes events and workshops, fostering dialogue and promoting cultural exchange across borders.
A Symbol of Unity
Radio Dreyeckland stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and the importance of bridging divides. Its cross-border operations serve as a reminder that communication and understanding can transcend geographical and political boundaries, creating a shared sense of community and identity.