Given the delicate state of democracy in the Western Balkans, it is crucial for journalists to possess skills in crisis reporting, which include covering riots, protests, and elections. These skills are vital for upholding professional standards and ensuring the safety of journalists. Journalists frequently face defamation in tabloid media and on social media for their professional conduct. They also encounter challenges in maintaining their digital security and safeguarding their work and sources.
This regional training, within the project “Strengthening Quality Journalism in Western Balkans and Türkiye II,” is tailored to address these challenges through a multi-sectoral approach, engaging experts from various related fields to share their knowledge and skills. The training will include practical simulations to showcase effective techniques for countering attacks and proactive measures.
The goal of the regional training camp is to equip journalists with specialized knowledge that enables them to protect themselves and their newsrooms from various threats, including physical, digital and psychological attacks. The training sessions will be led by a diverse group of trainers and guest speakers, including BIRN managing editors and other distinguished external speakers.
Who can apply?
To apply for the programme, journalists are required to meet the following criteria:
- Be a resident of one of the six Western Balkan countries – Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia and Serbia.
- Journalists with at least one year of working experience, or a final-year journalism students, recent graduates, and young and professional journalists from the six Western Balkan countries may apply for the course.
- Demonstrate a strong motivation and commitment to participation in the exchange programme.
BIRN is dedicated to promoting and achieving diversity in terms of gender, nationality and culture, so we encourage individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups, and those with disabilities to apply.
How to apply?
Applicants interested in this regional camp should fill in the Application Form in English language by 24 June 2024.
Selection Criteria
| Criteria for Selection of Participants | Scores |
| Journalists with residency in one of the six Western Balkan countries | 10 points |
| Working Experience | 10 points |
| Demonstration of strong motivation and commitment to participation in the exchange programme. | 30 points |
Language
The training will be held in English.
Location
The training will take place in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Details about the agenda, travel and accommodation will be provided to the selected participants.
Deadline for applications: Thursday, 24 June 2024, 23:59, Central European Time.
Tentative date of the training course: 8–10 July, 2024.
Remarks
Travel and accommodation costs will be covered by BIRN.
Training participants will have access to a content production fund available through this project.