Mentorship Programme Strengthens Investigative Journalism Capacity in Uzbekistan
From 24 to 26 February 2026, a specialised mentorship programme aimed at strengthening investigative journalism capacity in Uzbekistan brought together journalists and media experts for three days of intensive learning and collaboration. The programme was organised by Riga Graduate School of Law in cooperation with the Baltic Centre for Media Excellence (BCME) and the Anti-Corruption Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan. The initiative supports public administration reforms in Uzbekistan by helping strengthen the role and professional capacity of independent journalism.
During the mentorship programme, participating journalists from Uzbekistan had the opportunity to develop their own investigative journalism research plans with the guidance and support of experienced mentors and trainers. The programme combined practical training sessions with expert mentorship to help participants refine their investigative ideas and strengthen their professional skills.
Building Skills for Investigative Reporting
The programme covered a wide range of topics essential for investigative journalism, including:
- Investigative research planning and methodology
- Legal and ethical aspects of investigative reporting
- Safety and risk management for journalists
- Data collection, analysis, and verification techniques
- Critical and responsible use of artificial intelligence tools in journalism
- Financial planning and management of investigative projects
- Multi-platform storytelling and audience engagement strategies
Through workshops, discussions, and mentorship sessions, participants gained practical tools to strengthen their investigative work and adapt their reporting to evolving media environments.
Expert Mentors and Guest Lecturers
The programme was led by experienced media professionals:
- Inga Spriņģe, investigative journalist from Latvia
- Lola Islamova, journalist and media expert from the Modern Journalism Development Centre in Uzbekistan
- Additional guest lectures were delivered by media experts and journalists Filips Lastovskis, Gunta Sloga, Madina Tursanova, and Aneta Gutmane, who shared their professional insights and experience with participants.
Supporting Reform and Media Development
The mentorship programme is part of a broader initiative supporting governance reforms and professional development in Uzbekistan. By strengthening investigative journalism skills and encouraging cross-border knowledge exchange, the programme contributes to improving transparency, accountability, and public-interest reporting.
The project is co-funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development and the European Commission, with the Central Finance and Contracting Agency acting as the lead partner in Latvia.
