What's Happening?
The Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN), in collaboration with the Dutch-Flemish Association of Investigative Journalists (VVOJ), is providing fellowship opportunities for journalists to attend the 15th Global Investigative Journalism Conference
(GIJC27). This significant international event is scheduled to occur in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, from October 19 to 23, 2027. The conference aims to gather professionals, experts, and media practitioners from over 100 countries. The fellowship program specifically targets journalists from countries in the Global South and those from historically underrepresented groups. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their participation will enhance their professional skills and benefit from the training and networking opportunities at GIJC27. The conference agenda includes more than 150 expert panels and practical workshops covering a wide array of topics such as investigative reporting techniques, digital research, artificial intelligence in journalism, cross-border collaboration, press freedom, corruption, climate change reporting, and data journalism.
Why It's Important?
This fellowship initiative is crucial for fostering a more diverse and globally representative investigative journalism landscape. By prioritizing journalists from the Global South and underrepresented groups, GIJN and VVOJ are directly addressing disparities in access to advanced training and international networking opportunities. This support can empower journalists who often work in challenging environments with limited resources, enabling them to acquire cutting-edge skills in areas like AI applications and data journalism. The exchange of knowledge and collaboration among journalists from diverse backgrounds can lead to more comprehensive and impactful investigative reporting on global issues, including corruption and climate change. Ultimately, strengthening investigative journalism worldwide contributes to greater transparency, accountability, and informed public discourse, which are vital for democratic societies.
What's Next?
Interested journalists are encouraged to complete the official online fellowship application form before the deadline of January 31, 2027. The selection process will likely be highly competitive, emphasizing the need for applicants to clearly articulate how they plan to utilize the conference's training, knowledge, and networking opportunities to bolster investigative journalism. While the announcement confirms that fellowships are supported by conference sponsors and partners, specific financial coverage details, such as airfare, accommodation, and meals, are not yet fully disclosed. Applicants should consult the official fellowship application for comprehensive information regarding benefits and requirements. The conference itself, scheduled for October 2027, will serve as a platform for sharing best practices and fostering international collaborations that could shape the future of investigative journalism.
Beyond the Headlines
The emphasis on artificial intelligence and digital research in the conference curriculum highlights the evolving nature of investigative journalism. As technology advances, journalists need to adapt and leverage new tools to uncover complex stories. The focus on cross-border collaboration also underscores the increasing interconnectedness of global issues, requiring journalists to work across national boundaries to expose transnational crimes and systemic problems. Furthermore, by supporting journalists from regions where press freedom may be restricted, the program implicitly champions the critical role of a free press in holding power accountable and informing citizens, even in the face of adversity. This initiative is not just about skill-building but also about reinforcing the foundational principles of journalism in a rapidly changing world.
