David Gow, a respected journalist who dedicated his life to covering European politics and economics, has passed away at the age of 80. The former Guardian Germany correspondent and European business editor died of a heart attack on November 3, 2025. His passing leaves a lasting void in the world of public-interest journalism.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in Edinburgh in 1945, David Gow’s path to journalism began with an enduring curiosity about global affairs and the growing influence of Europe. After earning his education in Scotland, he joined The Scotsman in 1969. Over two decades, he built a reputation as one of the paper’s most incisive editors, eventually serving as its London editor and Europe correspondent.
Gow’s deep interest in the European project led him to focus his reporting on the dynamics of integration, trade, and governance. His early coverage of Britain’s relationship with the European Economic Community showcased his ability to distill complex policy debates into clear, human-centered storytelling.
Years at The Guardian
In 1989, Gow joined The Guardian, where he became known for his insightful coverage of Germany during a time of profound change. His reporting on the fall of the Berlin Wall and the reunification of East and West Germany was widely praised for its precision and empathy. Gow’s writing captured not only the political implications but also the personal stories of those experiencing history firsthand.
Later, he transitioned to Brussels to serve as The Guardian’s European business editor, where he analyzed economic reforms, EU expansion, and financial crises. His reporting offered clarity at moments when European politics appeared at their most intricate and volatile. Gow’s thoughtful approach helped readers make sense of both the headlines and the human stories behind them.
Commitment to Civic Journalism
Beyond his newsroom achievements, David Gow was a strong advocate for journalism that served the public good. He believed that information, when presented with integrity, could foster understanding between nations and empower citizens to hold institutions accountable.
His later work reflected this mission. Gow co-founded and co-edited Sceptical Scot, a digital platform dedicated to thoughtful, evidence-based commentary on Scottish affairs. He also contributed to Social Europe, offering essays that examined policy, social justice, and democracy through a progressive lens.
As a member of the Royal Society of Edinburgh (RSE), where he was elected a Fellow in 2023, Gow continued to mentor younger journalists and engage in discussions about the future of European media. His peers admired not only his intellect but also his generosity in sharing knowledge and opportunities.
Personal Life and Interests
Colleagues and friends remember Gow as much for his warmth as for his professionalism. Outside journalism, he was an avid gardener and enjoyed traveling with his wife, Gayle. The couple shared a love of literature and often hosted gatherings that brought together journalists, academics, and artists for lively discussions about culture and society.
He is survived by his wife Gayle, his daughter Gemma, and other family members who remember him as a devoted husband, father, and mentor. Those who worked alongside him describe him as calm under pressure, precise with words, and unwaveringly ethical in his reporting.
Tributes From Colleagues
Following news of his death, tributes poured in from across Europe. Former colleagues described him as “a journalist’s journalist”—someone who balanced skepticism with empathy and intellect with humility.
“David believed that journalism was a public duty, not a performance,” said one former colleague. “He reported with care, not noise. He gave readers context when others chased controversy.”
His work continues to influence journalists who strive to uphold the same standards of fairness and diligence. Many of his articles remain timeless references for those studying the evolution of European economic and political reporting.
Legacy in Modern Journalism
David Gow’s career spanned over five decades, a period during which journalism underwent dramatic changes—from print to digital, from slow reporting to the 24-hour news cycle. Through it all, he remained steadfast in his belief that journalism’s purpose was to inform, not to inflame.
He often spoke about the importance of context and verification in an era of information overload. His stance resonates today as journalists face the dual challenge of combating misinformation and rebuilding public trust in the media.
Gow’s emphasis on collaboration, both across newsrooms and national borders, made him a pioneer in cross-European reporting. His influence extends beyond the stories he wrote to the principles he upheld—truthfulness, curiosity, and respect for his readers.
Remembering a Life in Words
In his later years, Gow reflected on his profession’s role in democracy. He often quoted the phrase, “Journalism in the public interest is a civic duty,” a belief that defined his work until the end. His voice, steady and analytical, shaped conversations on both sides of the Channel for decades.
As his family, friends, and former colleagues gather to honor his memory, they celebrate not only his achievements but also his example—proof that the written word, when guided by purpose, can still enlighten and unite.