The NOS program 'Medialogica' has produced an interesting documentary titled 'The Dolfinarium – a feisty debate,' which centers on the Dolfinarium in Harderwijk. The documentary focuses primarily on the media attention surrounding the marine mammal park. The broadcast of Rambam concerning the so-called 'dolphin masturbator' plays a significant role in this. The broadcast offers useful insights into the media forces at play regarding an attraction under fire.
The broadcast devotes considerable attention to, among other things, the so-called 'dolphin jerk', a term that haunts the Dolfinarium to this day. But to what extent does the picture painted in 'Rambam' do justice to what takes place in the park? It appears that 'framing' played a significant role in this.
Animal organizations have been calling for the closure of the Dolfinarium in Harderwijk (and all other dolphinariums in the world) for years. Alex Romijn of the activist group Bite Back states in the broadcast that the media strategy is part of their strategy. In doing so, he deliberately chooses not to pursue nuance, but focuses on the ultimate goal: closure!
Dolfinarium director Alex Tiebot is among those interviewed in the broadcast. He had become somewhat media-shy in recent years, but ultimately agreed to participate in this program. On LinkedIn, he states: “I feel that Medialogica has produced a careful and nuanced story about dolphins under human care. A story that gives space to the complexity of the subject. And to the colleagues who care for our animals here every day with knowledge, attention, and dedication.”
Various experts in the field of animal welfare also have their say, including Annemarie van den Berg, former director of SOS Dolfijn, and international dolphin expert Isabella Clegg. They offer their nuanced views on the situation of dolphins in dolphinariums and point out that the dolphins currently residing there cannot simply be returned to the wild. Van den Berg states that the dolphins in dolphinariums are no longer 'wild animals,' and her goal is therefore: “How can we ensure that these animals have a better life?” They also point out the sometimes inaccurate or incomplete reporting on this in the media.
More information: www.dolfinarium.nl
Watch the entire broadcast at: