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The Balkan Investigative Reporting Network Albania (BIRN Albania), in collaboration with the Science for Innovation Development Centre (SCiDEV) and Qendra Faktoje, has launched an open call inviting journalists and researchers based in Albania to submit proposals for evidence-based investigations and research that examine media freedom and safety conditions for journalists in the country. The initiative is part of the EU-funded project “Strengthening Media Freedom, Professionalism and Journalists’ Safety in Albania.”
Who Can Apply: Local journalists and independent researchers with a commitment to analytical and investigative work on topics related to freedom of expression, press rights, and the security challenges facing media professionals in Albania.
Focus Areas: The call encourages proposals that explore one or more key themes including editorial independence and political interference, impacts of social media and digital platforms on journalism, threats and online harassment against journalists, mechanisms for legal protection and accountability in attacks, reporting challenges in rural areas, barriers to female journalists’ safety and career advancement, ethical reporting on marginalised groups, labour rights of media workers, and the influence of disinformation or propaganda on the media ecosystem.
Support and Benefits: Up to three projects will be selected for funding. Each successful applicant receives a grant of €1,500 gross to support research and reporting costs, along with editorial mentorship from experienced editors affiliated with BIRN, designed to strengthen the quality and ethical standards of the resulting investigation. Participants have three months to complete their work.
How It Works: The call aims to catalyse investigative journalism and data-driven research that can contribute to public accountability and a deeper understanding of media freedom conditions in Albania. Proposals that demonstrate rigorous methodology, potential for public impact, and relevance to issues affecting journalists’ rights and safety will be prioritised.
Application Deadline and Timeline: Submissions must be received by March 16, 2026. Follow-up communications will outline selection decisions and funding arrangements, with the expectation that the funded work will be completed within the following three months.
This open call represents an opportunity for media professionals and academics in Albania to contribute substantive reporting and analysis on press freedom, enhance the visibility of security concerns affecting journalists, and strengthen civil society’s role in defending freedom of expression.
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