About the Workshop
The workshop will focus on practical and ethical approaches to the documentation, preservation and use of information related to international crimes and human rights violations, with particular attention to contemporary challenges in digital archiving. The training will be delivered by the Mnemonic team, an internationally recognised organisation specializing in digital archiving, open-source investigations and the preservation of evidence of human rights abuses.
Through a combination of expert-led sessions, participants will strengthen their capacity to responsibly collect, verify, archive and manage sensitive materials related to human rights violations.
Key Topics Include:
- Principles and standards of open source investigations
- Digital archiving methodologies and tools
- Verification and contextualization of digital content
- Ethical, legal, and security considerations when working with sensitive data
- Practical case studies and hands-on exercises
- The use of AI in open source investigations.
Who Can Apply
The call is open to participants aged 20 to 36 from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro and Serbia who are actively engaged in:
- Law studies (including international law and international humanitarian law), political science, transitional justice studies, or related fields.
- Human rights documentation and advocacy.
- Investigative journalism.
- Research and archival work.
- Transitional justice, memorialization, or accountability initiatives.
A strong interest in transitional justice, archiving and documenting international crimes and human rights violations is essential.
Practical Information
- Dates: 11–13 March
- Location: Sarajevo
- Working language: English
- Costs: Travel, accommodation, and meals will be covered by BIRN for selected participants.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to:
- Fill out the application form with a short biography (up to 200 words) and a brief motivation statement explaining your interest in the workshop and how it relates to your current work.
- Register for the Info session for all those interested, to be held on January 23 at 16:00 CET. Register here.
Applications should be sent no later than 29 January at 17:00 CET. Only selected participants will be notified, in the first two weeks of February.
By submitting this application, you confirm your availability to participate in the workshop from 11 to 13 March, including travel days on 10 and 14 March. Please note that accommodation and travel arrangements will be organised in advance, and the associated costs will be covered accordingly.
Early applications are strongly encouraged, as they will facilitate timely selection and the organisation of travel and visa arrangements, where applicable.
For any questions about your application, contact [email protected]