Application form - Reporting Democracy Grants for Journalists 2026

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Information message

Reporting Democracy is inviting journalists from Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe to submit proposals for compelling stoReporting Democracy is inviting journalists from Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe to submit proposals for compelling stories that shed light on democracy issues facing the region.

This grant opportunity aims to support analytical and investigative journalism and amplify voices addressing social justice, the rule of law, minority rights, equality, access to public services, and other topics pertinent to human rights.

Journalists are encouraged to pitch story ideas on relevant subjects falling under the umbrella of Reporting Democracy.

Grants, each valued 1.500 euros, are available for professional freelance or staff journalists with proposals for investigative, analytical, or feature pieces.

Reporting Democracy will provide editorial support and a platform for publishing and distributing selected stories.

The deadline for submitting applications is July 1, 2026.

Personal information

First name

Surname

Nationality

Country of permanent residence

Telephone number

Professional information

Current employment

Freelance

Staff writer

Previous publishers/employers

Previous publishers/employers
	Previous publishers/employers	Item weight

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List the most relevant employers/publishers for whom you have worked/written

Since when have you been a freelancer?

Enter the date when you started freelancing

Where do you work?

Please enter the name of your current employer.

When were you first employed there?

Relevant previous work experience

Relevant previous work experience
	Relevant previous work experience	Item weight

Please list any relevant previous work experience by providing the name of the employer, your job title, and the duration (in months/years) you held that position

Examples of published work

Examples of published work
	Examples of published work Link Title Link URL	Item weight

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Please add links to articles you have written that have been published. Applicants must submit at least one and not more than three representative examples of their published work. Work samples may be submitted in local languages or in English.

Proficiency in English

Questions	Native	Fluent	Good	Basic
Comprehension	Native	Fluent	Good	Basic
Written	Native	Fluent	Good	Basic
Spoken	Native	Fluent	Good	Basic

Please keep in mind that a fine command of English is a mandatory precondition.

Story proposal

Topic Focus

Provide a concise and clear overview of the subject of your story.

Significance

Articulate the significance of your story and why it matters to our readers.

Originality

Elaborate on the distinctive aspects of your story, highlighting how it differs from existing coverage on the topic.

Research Strategy

Outline the sources you intend to use and describe your approach to conducting research.

Timeline

Estimated time needed for research and reporting.

Publication plan

Briefly explain where you plan to publish your story and how you will promote it to maximise its reach and impact

Additional Insights

Include anything you consider important to mention in your application that you haven't had the opportunity to share earlier.

Declaration

I declare the accuracy of all statements made in the application form. Further, I confirm that, if selected, I have all the necessary permissions from my employer to pursue the story, and that I will be able to devote all due attention to it.

I confirm declaration

Yes