As of today, the fate of 1,617 individuals of all ethnic backgrounds remains unknown, a haunting fact that fuels a perpetual sense of loss, fear, and uncertainty among affected families and communities.
This also often includes bias or ethnic-centric reporting from the mainstream media. Therefore, the independent media must shed light on the profound impact this unresolved matter has, particularly on the families of the missing persons, and more broadly, on regional reconciliation.
To address these challenges and contribute to more credible and professional future generations of journalists in Kosovo, BIRN will organize a one-day training module with journalists on April 4, 2024 in Prishtina, Kosovo as part of the project “Uncovering the Truth: Combatting Monoethnic Journalism and Advocating for the Missing Persons in Kosovo” supported by the EU.
These trained professionals will develop a sensitivity to understanding the issues surrounding missing persons from multiple perspectives (such as humanitarian, forensic, right to truth, etc.,) and will spearhead the creation of compelling content based on factual reporting.
The one-day training module will bring together 20 young and mid-career journalists from different communities, who will have the opportunity to acquire knowledge and hands-on skills on the matter.
More specifically, the training focuses on the critical issue of reporting on missing persons, encompassing aspects from individual cases to court proceedings, social, political and legal contexts, forensics and medical expert analysis and the challenges faced by affected families. The technical expertise of journalists lies in their ability to research, document, and communicate stories effectively.
The training module will be delivered by BIRN’s regional and local team of award-winning journalists and editors, who have extensive experience in investigating, reporting on, and advocating for such issues.
Who can apply?
Young and mid-career journalists across different regions in Kosovo, who are interested in learning more about reporting on the topic of the missing persons, are eligible to apply for this call. Applicants from marginalized communities in Kosovo, including members of minority ethnic communities and women, that fulfill the above-mentioned criteria are encouraged to apply for this call.
To apply for the one-day training on fact-checking reporting click here.
Language: Simultaneous translation in Albanian, Serbian, and English will be provided.
Location: The training will take place in Prishtina, Kosovo. Details regarding the specific location and agenda will only be provided to selected participants.
Deadline for application: April 1, 2024
Date of the training course: April 4, 2024