Submitted by crinadmin on
What is investigative reporting?
Article 19, an NGO that campaigns for freedom of expression, cite author Lucinda S.Fleeson when suggesting that investigative journalism is not only about corruption and crime, but about explaining the success and failure of systems.
According to Article 19, definitions of investigative reporting include “stories that contain original work, not leaked investigations from law authorities; show a pattern of systematic problems, not just one isolated incident affecting one individual; right a wrong; explain complex social problems; reveal corruption, wrongdoing or abuse of power.”
Fleeson said the most common obstacles faced by such reporters in developing and developed countries include inaccessibility to documents, unwillingness of media owners to publish controversial stories, fear of retribution by political or business interests, threats to personal security, inadequate time, lack of budgets for travel and expenses, fear of failure, lawsuits, job loss and the lack of an investigative tradition.
See Article 19, A 'Manual for Arab Journalists on Freedom of Information and Investigative Journalism' (2007), available at: http://www.article19.org/pdfs/tools/iraq-foi-inves-journ-manual.pdf
Investigative reports are more likely to be destined for print media, as opposed to TV or online. However, TV might provide a good means for publicising a story as long as the station is willing to outlay the significant costs involved.
NGOs can be useful to investigative reporters because they may provide information and contacts for stories. Investigative reporters can be good allies for NGOs because they may be able to uncover stories that raise important children's rights issues and elevate them to local, national or international consciousness.
What sorts of stories might an investigative reporter be interested in?
This is difficult to answer with any certainty. The type of story will depend on the media outlet, and perhaps also on the interests or values of the reporter.
Reasonably experienced reporters can usually spot an advertising, or public relations exercise, from a mile off. It is fine to contact media in the hope that they will publicise an aspect of your work, or organisation, but there is little point in trying to mask, say, a PR event as an investigative journalism opportunity. Journalists respect directness and honesty, and this approach will foster mutual trust.
Try and think about the angle that a journalist might be interested in – not just the issue that you want to raise.
Approaching a journalist
Beware: The information you provide will not necessarily be turned into the story you want published. In some cases, the published story could take an entirely different angle and – at worst – it may even run counter to your original intentions.
For example, a story about children being exposed to toxic chemicals in the water supply as a result of a State neglect could turn into a political story emphasising the need for water access to be privatised.
Or, a story on child sexual abuse could end up (illegally) revealing the identity of the abused, or expose the family of the accused to social stigma and shame.
You should try to foresee all the risks when approaching an investigative journalist, and think very carefully about whether it is the best route to take for your organisation. Are you aware of the risks? Are they risks worth taking? Who could be harmed?
The angle of a story is always the preserve of the journalist and publication/media outlet. You cannot tell a reporter what to write, and even if he/she adopts the approach that you have recommended, a reporter can always be overruled by an editor.
Remember: The journalist is not your friend. Their job is to find good stories, and they are usually under strict deadline pressure to file them. Stories sell newspapers and attract advertising for TV or radio stations, so do not expect journalists to share your priorities. That said, there are many journalists who are committed to writing about social justice issues, and they may be interested in sharing your important story with their readers, listeners or viewers.
If you do come across a journalist who is sympathetic to your cause, nurture the relationship! A good idea would be to keep a database of journalists who are interested in your work. If you read an article or see a report that is related to your cause, make contact with the relevant journalist.
Of course, there is a balance to be struck between keeping in touch and annoying reporters with dozens of calls!
Another tip: While you may be reluctant to contact 'junior reporters', perhaps because of their limited experience, they are also less likely to be cynical and hardened. It might be worthwhile finding out about the new, or young, reporters at a particular media outlet and arranging a meeting so you can pitch story ideas. They may be more open to your ideas and suggestions.
The Centre for Investigative Reporting has listed a number of resources, mainly for journalists, that may also prove useful for children's rights NGOs/activists. Visit: http://centerforinvestigativereporting.org/tools