"We chose to identify ourselves as investigative journalists to denote the type of agenda-setting, quality journalism that our members strive for. It was important to us to establish ourselves as a network as our organisation is fundamentally about connecting journalists who share common goals and ideals." - declared chairperson of the MIJN board, Alexandra Lembke.
Students at the Master's programme in investigative journalism (MIJ) at JMG, University of Gothenburg, have launched a new media organisation – MIJN, the Modern Investigative Journalism Network.
“We chose to identify ourselves as investigative journalists to denote the type of agenda-setting, quality journalism that our members strive for. It was important to us to establish ourselves as a network as our organisation is fundamentally about connecting journalists who share common goals and ideals.” - declared chairperson of the MIJN board, Alexandra Lembke.
MIJN members represent more than 15 countries, including Sweden, Finland, UK, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Australia, South Africa, Czech Republic, Hungary and Moldova.
The goal of the organisation is to support media initiatives, such as organising training and workshops, and cross-border investigative projects and promoting quality journalism and democracy in Sweden and abroad.
“MIJN has been created by university colleagues who want to stay connected in the professional world.” – said Nicholas Thomas, one of the founding members. “Through the MIJN organisation, its members can work together on investigations, share knowledge and tips, attend conferences and events, and maintain the strong bonds forged in Gothenburg. Its members are from diverse backgrounds and share a common dedication to producing honest, accountable journalism.”
Modern Investigative Journalism Network is a not-for-profit organization that will act outside politics or religion and in the public interest, exclusively. All the activities will be supported financially by grants, donations, crowdfunding and membership fees.
“We hope our members can collaborate with each other. Being a part of the organisation will help members in seeking and getting funds, and support from other members.” – said board member and treasurer, Hanna Tuulonen.
The first actions within the organization will be to initialize media campaigns on important topics, and apply for grants in order to launch media projects related to investigative journalism and media.
Follow MIJN on Twitter: @MIJNorg