In a world where information flows rapidly and boundaries between truth and misinformation blur, investigative journalism stands as a cornerstone for fostering transparency, accountability, and an informed citizenry. From exposing corruption to unveiling systemic injustices, investigative journalists serve as societal watchdogs, scrutinizing the powerful and amplifying the voices of the marginalized.

This training program aspires to equip reporters globally with the skills necessary to navigate the intricacies of investigative journalism and will help them in the future unravel hidden truths and shed light on issues that resonate across diverse beats and topics. The objective is to empower journalists to undertake thorough investigations, fostering a media environment where truth prevails, and the public remains informed and engaged. By the end of this program, you will be equipped with tools and know-how to conduct your own investigations.

The Global Investigative Journalism Network and iMEdD’s training pillar, Ideas Zone, are coming together to offer this unique program specifically tailored for all reporters and journalists with little to no experience in investigative journalism. The course curricula will be divided in two parts; the first will be delivered online through 10 hands-on practical sessions, while the second part will take place in person in Greece, both led by some of the world’s leading investigative journalism trainers.

Course Details

The course is free and limited to 12 participants. Starting on September 3, 2024, online classes will take place each Tuesday for eight consecutive weeks at 9 a.m. EDT and last three hours. See what time it is in your country here.

In the ninth week, two classes will take place, on Tuesday and Thursday. Then, there will be a gap week, before fellows travel to Greece for one week to attend in-person classes. The in-person training will be held in Greece the week of November 11th.

If granted a place in the cohort, applicants are required to attend all sessions of the program in full. Trainers will provide weekly homework, and all participants are expected to complete the homework before their next class.

At the end of the course, participants will develop an investigative pitch and present it to the trainers and the classmates. The estimated time commitment is roughly six hours a week. Applicants must be proficient in understanding and reading English.

Eligibility Criteria

Priority will be given to journalists who can demonstrate five years of experience in journalism, but have very little or no experience in investigative journalism. Fellows with no professional journalism experience aren’t eligible. Selection will be based on the quality of the application, the level of work submitted, while diversity will be ensured.

Topics Covered in the Training Sessions Include: 

• Deep internet research
• Using satellite images
• Following the money
• International collaboration
• Safety and security
• Legal protection
• Fact checking

What is Included

• Round-trip airfare to Greece
• Hotel room
• Transport between the airport and hotel in Greece
• Meals
• Travel health insurance
• Certificate