First Latin American Conference on Investigative Journalism

19 August 2009 in Americas, Anti-corruption movement, Events, Politics and government, Poverty and development, Region

Investigative journalists open doors and help society evolve from a culture of secrecy to one where transparency, good governance and public accountability are the core values. On 15-18 August, Transparency International (TI) and Instituto Prensa y Sociedad (IPYS) brought together journalists from all over Latin America and beyond to the first Latin American Conference on Investigative Journalism in Peru. With a shared desire to create a space for reflection and to increase support for investigative journalism, the conference featured presentations and discussions on journalistic techniques, methods for investigating corruption and related social issues, as well as case studies from different regions.

One of our greatest allies in the global fight against corruption is the media, with investigative journalists contributing particularly valuable work to the cause. Thanks to the immense courage, tenacity and professionalism of these men and women, large and complex cases of corruption are brought before the public eye. Quite often their reports – exposing cases of massive bribery, money laundering, embezzlement of public funds or the abuse of positions of power – have mobilised public opinion and institutions into action, leading to investigations and the condemnation of those responsible for such practices. Their work also plays a vital role in demystifying the roots and consequences of corruption in all its forms.