The Centre for Human Rights Reporting is an emerging initiative aimed at addressing a critical gap in investigative human rights journalism and education. It responds to the decline in traditional foreign and investigative news desks, a gap now being filled by non-governmental organisations (NGOs). These organizations have increasingly developed their own investigative teams, producing content that was once the domain of mainstream news media. However, the transition to NGO-led journalism has not been mirrored by a corresponding shift in educational opportunities for those looking to pursue human rights reporting. This is where the Centre steps in.
Purpose and Vision
The Centre aims to provide a unique learning environment that spans journalism, human rights law, and advocacy. By blending these disciplines, the Centre aspires to become a global hub for education and excellence in investigative human rights reporting. Its mission is multifaceted:
- To educate future investigative reporters and human rights advocates.
- To critically assess NGO reporting with a focus on quality control and best practices.
- To promote investigative human rights journalism through articles, practitioner networks, and social media outreach.
The Centre will serve not only as an academic institution but also as a practitioner’s hub, partnering with leading NGOs to conduct cutting-edge research and develop new investigative techniques.
Relevance and Urgency
The timing of this initiative is crucial. The rise of NGO-led journalism, while promising, brings challenges. There is a risk that journalism could become a tool for fundraising or advocacy at the expense of factual integrity. With the spread of fake news and the erosion of human rights globally, there is a pressing need for quality, independent reporting that balances investigative rigor with ethical considerations.
Activities and Focus Areas
The Centre will facilitate in-depth investigative research on a wide array of human rights issues, such as:
- Armed violence
- Global security
- Freedom of religion and gender rights
- Refugee rights
- Fair trial and due process
Students and practitioners will benefit from workshops, short courses, and partnerships with NGOs, gaining hands-on experience in investigative reporting and advocacy.
Educational Offerings and Impact
The Centre’s academic offerings will include degree courses, workshops, and one-off events, leading – we hope – up to the creation of a stand-alone MA in Human Rights Reporting.
Through its research, the Centre will also generate reports and articles, aiming to influence both academic discourse and mainstream media narratives on human rights issues.
By bridging journalism and advocacy, the Centre for Human Rights Reporting aspires to train a new generation of investigative journalists and human rights advocates. It seeks to uphold journalistic integrity while fostering a deeper public engagement with human rights issues in a world increasingly defined by misinformation, extremism, and the erosion of rights.