1. Background

As part of its ongoing commitment to advancing transparency, accountability, and integrity in Iraq, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with Transparency International Lebanon, is organizing a blended investigative journalism training. This initiative aims to empower a new generation of Iraqi journalists and activists with the tools and methodologies necessary to expose corruption and promote public accountability through responsible reporting. Funded by the European Union. The trainings will be conducted within the framework of UNDP`s Anti-Corruption and Arbitration Initiatives. 

2. Title of the Training

Investigative Journalism For The Common Good.

3. Training Modality and Location

The training will consist of:

• A three-day in-person training workshop in Erbil, Iraq, from 19–21 May 2025;

• A series of online sessions post workshop via Zoom;

• One to One post workshop coaching sessions. 

4. Objectives of the Training

This training is designed to strengthen the investigative capacities of emerging journalists and civil society actors in Iraq. Through a combination of theory, hands-on practice, and real-life case analysis, participants will:

• Understand the core principles and methodologies of investigative journalism

• Develop strong, evidence-based investigative hypotheses

• Learn how to uncover and analyze corruption schemes

• Apply ethical and safety measures when covering sensitive issues

• Gain practical experience in story development and investigative strategy

5. Learning Outcomes

By the end of the training, participants will be able to:

• Practice impactful investigative reporting

• Use digital tools and open sources to trace corruption and misconduct

• Critically assess and verify information and sources

• Apply ethical frameworks and prioritize personal and source safety

• Draw inspiration from case studies across the MENA region

6. Target Participants

This training is intended for 20 participants from across Iraq, specifically:

• Early-career journalists (1–2 years of reporting experience)

• Civil society activists involved in transparency and anti-corruption work

• Media professionals aiming to expand their investigative reporting capabilities

7. Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be currently working as a journalist, civil society member, or researcher

• Have a demonstrated interest in investigative journalism and/or anti-corruption efforts

• Commit to attending the full three-day in-person training and the post training workshop online sessions.

• Possess basic research and writing skills

• Be fluent in Arabic 

• Basic understanding of English is a plus

• Aged between 22 and 30 years old

8. Trainers and Facilitation

The training will be delivered by leading trainer(s) from the investigative journalism field, combining global investigative standards with contextualized knowledge relevant to Iraq and the broader MENA region.

9. Logistics and Support

UNDP will cover the following for all selected participants:

• Round-trip travel to Erbil

• Hotel accommodation during the training period

• Meals and coffee breaks

• Per diem allowances

• Training materials and certificates of participation

10. Application Process and Timeline

• Call for Applications Opens: 25 April 2025

• Application Deadline: 30 April 2025

• Review and Selection of Applications: 1–8 May 2025

• Announcement of Selected Participants: 10 May 2025

11. How to Apply

Interested individuals should complete the online application form [HERE] and submit all required information before the stated deadline.

12. Contact Information

For questions or further information, please contact: 
Ammar Al-Shami 

ammar.al-shami@undp.org