The Global Investigative Journalism Conference 2027 offers professional journalists an opportunity to attend one of the world’s leading international gatherings for investigative reporting in Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
The 15th edition of the conference, also known as GIJC27, will bring together investigative reporters, editors, data journalists and media professionals from around the world.
The event will take place from October 19 to 23, 2027, including a pre-conference day on October 19.
To support participation, the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN) is offering competitive fellowships, particularly for journalists from developing and transitioning countries and historically underrepresented groups.
Selected full fellows receive return airfare, four nights of hotel accommodation, conference registration, airport transfers and specified meals.
However, visa fees, daily personal allowances and transportation to the departure airport in the fellow’s home country are not covered.
The fellowship application deadline is January 31, 2027.
Interested journalists can review the official GIJC27 fellowship announcement and apply through the organizer’s online form.
Global Investigative Journalism Conference 2027 Overview
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Conference | Global Investigative Journalism Conference |
| Edition | 15th |
| Short Name | GIJC27 |
| Organizer | Global Investigative Journalism Network |
| Co-host | Dutch-Flemish Association of Investigative Journalists (VVOJ) |
| Country | Netherlands |
| City | Rotterdam |
| Venue | de Doelen ICC Rotterdam |
| Conference Dates | October 20–23, 2027 |
| Pre-Conference Day | October 19, 2027 |
| Fellowship Type | Competitive conference fellowship |
| Funding | Full and potentially partial fellowships |
| Main Applicants | Professional journalists |
| Freelancers | Eligible |
| Priority Applicants | Global South and underrepresented groups |
| Working Language | English |
| Application Deadline | January 31, 2027 |
| Application Method | Online |
What Is the Global Investigative Journalism Conference?
The Global Investigative Journalism Conference is an international event focused on investigative reporting, journalism skills and professional collaboration.
It brings together journalists who investigate issues of public importance.
These may include corruption, financial wrongdoing, environmental problems, human rights abuses and other matters requiring detailed research.
The conference is organized by the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN).
Its purpose is to help journalists strengthen their reporting techniques, exchange knowledge and build professional relationships.
Unlike general media conferences, GIJC places strong emphasis on practical training.
Participants can attend expert panels, workshops and networking activities designed around investigative journalism.
The 2027 edition will feature more than 150 panels and workshops, covering established reporting methods and emerging technologies.
About the Global Investigative Journalism Network
GIJN is an international network of journalism organizations that supports investigative reporting.
Its work includes professional training, resource sharing and collaboration among journalists across borders.
The organization also publishes reporting guides and information about investigative journalism techniques.
GIJN has organized previous global conferences in different regions, helping journalists share methods and develop international partnerships.
For the 2027 event, GIJN is working with the Dutch-Flemish Association of Investigative Journalists (VVOJ).
VVOJ supports investigative journalism in the Netherlands, Belgium and the wider region.
You can learn more through the official GIJN website.
Where Will GIJC27 Take Place?
The conference will be held in:
Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
The official venue is:
de Doelen ICC Rotterdam
This concert and congress center is located in central Rotterdam.
The venue will host journalists, trainers, editors and media professionals attending the conference.
Rotterdam is a major Dutch city with international transport connections.
Selected fellows should follow the organizer’s instructions regarding flights, airport transfers and hotel arrangements.
Conference Dates and Duration
The full event period is:
October 19–23, 2027
The main conference takes place from October 20 to 23.
October 19 is scheduled as a pre-conference day.
The fellowship package includes four nights of hotel accommodation.
Therefore, applicants should not assume that every additional night before or after the event will be covered.
What Is the GIJC27 Fellowship Programme?
The GIJC27 Fellowship Programme helps eligible journalists attend the international conference when participation costs would otherwise be difficult to afford.
The organizer particularly wants to support journalists from the Global South and historically underrepresented groups.
Fellowships are competitive.
Applicants must demonstrate that attending the conference would benefit their journalism work and professional communities.
The program is not a long-term research fellowship or salaried journalism job.
Instead, it provides financial support to attend a major professional training conference.
Is the Global Investigative Journalism Conference Fully Funded?
GIJN offers a full fellowship package that covers several major conference and travel expenses.
However, it does not cover every possible cost.
For selected full fellows, the package includes return airfare, hotel accommodation, conference registration, specified meals and airport transfers.
The organizer explicitly excludes visa fees, per diem allowances and transportation to and from the applicant’s home-country airport.
Therefore, describing the fellowship as covering major conference expenses is more accurate than promising a completely free trip.
The organizer may also offer partial fellowships.
Full Fellowship Benefits
1. Round-Trip Airfare
Selected full fellows receive round-trip airfare to Rotterdam or the nearest major airport.
The organizer coordinates the applicable travel arrangements.
Applicants should not book their own flights and assume reimbursement without official instructions.
2. Hotel Accommodation
The full fellowship includes:
Four nights of hotel accommodation.
The hotel arrangements are connected with the conference schedule.
Additional nights are not automatically included.
3. Airport Transfers
The fellowship covers transportation between the arrival airport and the conference hotel.
This benefit applies to the designated airport-transfer arrangements.
It does not include transportation from the fellow’s home to their departure airport.
4. Conference Registration
Selected full fellows receive coverage of the conference registration fee.
This allows them to attend the eligible sessions and activities included in the fellowship arrangements.
5. Breakfast
The package includes breakfast on conference days:
October 20–23, 2027.
6. Lunch
Lunch is covered on the full conference days from October 20 to 23.
7. Opening Reception
Full fellows can attend the cocktail reception scheduled for:
October 19, 2027.
8. Award Ceremony Dinner
The fellowship includes the award ceremony dinner on:
October 22, 2027.
The ceremony forms part of the conference’s international journalism activities.
What Expenses Are Not Covered?
The official fellowship announcement clearly excludes several costs.
| Expense | Covered by Full Fellowship? |
|---|---|
| Return airfare | Yes |
| Four hotel nights | Yes |
| Airport-to-hotel transfers | Yes |
| Conference registration | Yes |
| Specified breakfasts and lunches | Yes |
| Opening reception | Yes |
| Award ceremony dinner | Yes |
| Visa fees | No |
| Daily personal allowance | No |
| Transport to home-country airport | No |
| Additional personal expenses | No |
Applicants should calculate these remaining expenses before accepting an award.
Are Partial Fellowships Available?
Possibly.
GIJN states that it is working to secure as much funding as possible.
Alongside full fellowships, the organizer may offer partial financial support to some applicants.
The application form asks whether candidates would like to be considered for a partial fellowship.
However, the availability and exact benefits of partial awards depend on funding.
Applicants should not assume that every partial fellowship will include flights or accommodation.
If offered a partial award, carefully review which expenses remain your responsibility.
How Many Fellowships Are Available?
GIJN has not yet confirmed the final number of fellowships for GIJC27.
The number depends on sponsorship and available financial support.
For comparison, the previous global conference in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, supported nearly 130 fellows from 80 countries and territories.
However, this historical figure is not a confirmed allocation for Rotterdam.
The 2027 number may be different.
Who Can Apply for GIJC27 Fellowships?
The fellowship is primarily intended for professional journalists.
Eligible journalism formats include:
- Print journalism
- Online journalism
- Television journalism
- Video journalism
- Radio journalism
- Documentary journalism
- Multimedia journalism
Freelance journalists are also eligible.
Applicants should demonstrate professional journalism experience and explain how they would use the conference training.
Are Freelance Journalists Eligible?
Yes.
GIJN explicitly includes freelance journalists among eligible applicants.
You do not need to work permanently for a major media company.
However, you should be able to demonstrate that you work professionally as a journalist.
Examples of supporting experience may include published investigations, reporting assignments, documentary work or other professional journalism projects.
The exact application requirements should be checked in the official form.
Is Investigative Journalism Experience Required?
Previous investigative or data journalism experience is an advantage.
However, the official eligibility criteria describe it as a plus, rather than a universal mandatory requirement.
This means professional journalists with other reporting backgrounds may also be considered.
A strong applicant should explain why investigative journalism training would be useful to their work.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
The fellowship primarily supports journalists from developing and transitioning countries.
GIJN prioritizes applicants from the Global South and historically underrepresented groups.
The organizer provides an eligible-country list through its official fellowship announcement.
However, GIJN also states that journalists from countries outside that list may apply if they cannot afford to attend.
Such applicants should explain their financial circumstances in the Additional Notes section of the application.
Therefore, applicants should not automatically assume they are ineligible solely because their country is absent from the priority list.
Can Journalists From Developed Countries Apply?
GIJN gives priority to journalists from the Global South and historically underrepresented groups.
However, the official announcement allows applicants outside the listed priority countries to explain why they need financial assistance.
Selection remains competitive.
Applicants should clearly describe their circumstances and the professional value of attending.
Is There an Age Limit?
The official fellowship announcement does not specify a general age limit.
Eligibility is based mainly on professional journalism experience, geographic priorities and the applicant’s ability to benefit from the training.
Is a University Degree Required?
The published eligibility criteria do not state that every applicant must hold a specific university degree.
The fellowship is designed for professional journalists working across different media formats.
Relevant reporting experience and a strong explanation of the training’s value are therefore important.
Can University Students Apply?
The fellowship targets professional journalists rather than general university students.
A student who also works professionally as a journalist may be able to apply if they meet the relevant criteria.
However, being enrolled in a journalism degree alone does not establish eligibility.
Applicants should demonstrate actual journalism experience.
English Language Requirement
Applicants need a working knowledge of English.
The conference panels and workshops will be conducted in English.
The fellowship application must also be submitted in English.
This requirement helps participants follow training sessions, communicate with colleagues and take part in international discussions.
Is IELTS Required?
The official fellowship announcement does not specify a mandatory IELTS or TOEFL score.
Instead, applicants must demonstrate sufficient working English proficiency to participate.
They should be comfortable understanding professional presentations and communicating with journalists from other countries.
What Will Participants Learn?
GIJC27 will feature more than 150 sessions covering different investigative reporting techniques.
The announced topics include several important areas.
Online Investigation Techniques
Participants can learn methods for locating and verifying information through online sources.
These skills can support investigations involving public records, digital evidence and online activity.
Artificial Intelligence in Journalism
The conference will examine the use of artificial intelligence in investigative reporting.
Sessions may explore how journalists can use AI tools while maintaining accuracy, transparency and editorial standards.
Data Journalism
Data journalism helps reporters analyze information and identify patterns that may reveal important stories.
Participants can learn techniques for working with datasets and presenting findings clearly.
Satellite Imagery
Satellite imagery can support investigations into environmental changes, conflict-related damage and other events.
The conference will include expertise in using such information for reporting.
Climate and Environmental Investigations
Environmental journalism is another announced area.
Sessions may explore investigative approaches to climate-related issues and environmental accountability.
Corruption Investigations
Investigative journalists often examine corruption, misuse of public resources and financial wrongdoing.
The conference provides opportunities to learn from reporters with experience in complex investigations.
Cross-Border Collaboration
Some investigations involve activities across several countries.
GIJC27 will include discussions about how journalists can work together across borders.
These collaborations can help reporters share expertise and investigate international networks.
Reporting Under Press Freedom Restrictions
Journalists working in difficult environments may face censorship, threats or limited access to information.
The conference will feature discussions about investigative methods, risk reduction and maintaining reporting standards under pressure.
Journalism in Exile
GIJC27 will also address challenges faced by journalists and media organizations operating outside their home countries.
These sessions can help participants understand reporting methods and professional challenges in exile.
International Networking Opportunities
The conference is expected to attract journalists from more than 100 countries.
Participants can meet:
- Investigative reporters
- Editors
- Data journalists
- Documentary journalists
- Media trainers
- Journalism organizations
- International collaborators
Networking can help journalists exchange ideas and develop future reporting partnerships.
However, attending the conference does not guarantee employment, publication opportunities or future grants.
Fellowship Requirements After the Conference
GIJN requires fellows to share the knowledge they gain.
After attending GIJC27, selected fellows must complete one of two activities.
Option 1: Produce a Story
Fellows can produce a journalism story directly related to the conference.
The story should reflect knowledge, methods or reporting ideas connected with GIJC27.
Option 2: Give a Presentation
Alternatively, fellows can deliver a presentation to colleagues or the wider journalism community.
The presentation should share lessons and techniques learned during the conference.
This requirement helps extend the benefits of the fellowship beyond the selected participants.
Applicants should be prepared to meet this obligation before applying.
Application Deadline
The official deadline is:
January 31, 2027.
GIJN has not published a universal closing hour in its main fellowship announcement.
Applicants should submit early rather than waiting until the final day.
How to Apply for Global Investigative Journalism Conference 2027 Fellowships
The application process is online.
Step 1: Visit the Official Fellowship Page
Open the GIJC27 fellowship information page.
Read the eligibility criteria, benefits and post-conference obligations.
Step 2: Check Your Professional Eligibility
Confirm that you work professionally in journalism.
Freelancers and journalists across print, broadcast, documentary and digital media can apply.
Step 3: Review the Country Priorities
Check the eligible-country information linked from the official announcement.
If your country is outside the priority list but you cannot afford to attend, review the instructions for explaining your circumstances.
Step 4: Prepare Your Journalism Background
Gather accurate information about your professional experience.
You may find it useful to prepare details about:
- Your current journalism work
- Reporting areas
- Previous investigations
- Relevant published work
- Experience using data
- Professional responsibilities
The online form determines the exact information required.
Step 5: Explain Why You Want to Attend
Describe the skills you hope to develop.
Connect your goals with the conference’s training areas.
A specific explanation is more convincing than a general statement about wanting international experience.
Step 6: Explain How You Will Share the Knowledge
The fellowship includes a post-conference reporting or presentation requirement.
Describe how you could use the training in your professional work and share it with colleagues.
Step 7: Consider Partial Fellowship Support
The application form asks whether you would accept a partial fellowship.
Consider your financial circumstances before answering.
If you cannot cover the remaining expenses, do not assume that partial support will be sufficient.
Step 8: Complete the Official Application
Use the Apply for a Fellowship option on the official GIJC27 fellowship page.
Complete the online form in English.
Step 9: Submit Before the Deadline
Submit your application by:
January 31, 2027.
Review your answers carefully before submitting.
How to Strengthen Your Fellowship Application
Demonstrate Professional Journalism Experience
Explain your current reporting work and professional responsibilities.
If you are a freelancer, describe the journalism projects you have completed.
Highlight Investigative Interests
Show how investigative reporting connects with your work.
Relevant interests may include corruption, climate, public accountability, data journalism or cross-border investigations.
Identify Specific Training Needs
Instead of saying you want to improve your journalism skills, explain which methods you want to learn.
For example, you might be interested in satellite imagery, data analysis or online verification.
Explain the Impact on Your Community
GIJN wants fellows to use and share the knowledge they gain.
Explain how attending the conference could benefit your newsroom, colleagues or local journalism community.
Be Clear About Financial Need
If you cannot afford to attend independently, explain your circumstances accurately.
Avoid exaggerating your financial situation.
Show Commitment to Sharing Knowledge
Describe a realistic plan for producing a related story or giving a presentation after the conference.
Write Clearly in English
The application must be submitted in English.
Use simple, direct language and avoid unnecessary technical terms.
Selection Process
GIJN reviews fellowship applications based on the published criteria and the availability of funding.
Competition is expected to be strong.
The organization considers applicants’ journalism experience, eligibility, training needs and potential to benefit from the conference.
Priority is given to journalists from the Global South and historically underrepresented groups.
GIJN states that it cannot provide individual application-status updates because of the expected volume of applications.
Applicants should monitor their email for official communication.
When Will Fellowship Results Be Announced?
The official main fellowship announcement does not provide a confirmed results date.
Therefore, applicants should not rely on unofficial selection schedules.
GIJN will communicate with successful candidates through its official process.
Does the Fellowship Cover Visa Fees?
No.
The fellowship does not cover visa fees.
Applicants who require a visa for the Netherlands must pay the applicable fees themselves.
They should also follow the relevant Dutch immigration requirements.
Selection for the fellowship does not guarantee visa approval.
Does the Fellowship Cover Accommodation?
Yes, for full fellows.
The package includes four nights of hotel accommodation.
However, additional nights outside the official arrangements are not automatically covered.
Does the Fellowship Cover Meals?
The full fellowship includes specified meals during the conference.
These include breakfasts and lunches on the announced conference days, the opening reception and the award ceremony dinner.
It does not provide a general daily meal allowance.
Applicants should budget for any meals outside the official package.
Is There a Monthly Stipend?
No monthly stipend is announced.
This is a short professional conference fellowship rather than a long-term paid research or employment program.
The financial benefits are connected with attending the conference.
Does GIJN Charge an Application Fee?
The official fellowship announcement does not list an application fee.
Applicants should use the official form linked from GIJN.
Be cautious of third parties promising guaranteed selection in exchange for payment.
Is GIJC27 Worth Considering?
The fellowship may be particularly useful for journalists who want to improve their investigative reporting methods.
It offers opportunities to learn from experienced professionals, explore new technologies and build international connections.
However, applicants should understand that the program is competitive.
They must also budget for expenses not included in the fellowship package.
The strongest applicants will be those who can explain how they intend to use and share the training.
Other International Journalism and Professional Opportunities
Journalists interested in longer professional training can explore the DW Traineeship, an 18-month paid journalism program offered by Deutsche Welle in Germany.
Professionals interested in public administration and data analysis can consider the World Bank Government Analytics Fellowship, which focuses on improving government operations through evidence-based methods.
Applicants interested in international leadership and professional networks may also explore the Yale World Fellows Program, subject to its specific eligibility conditions.
These opportunities serve different audiences.
GIJC27 is especially relevant to working journalists who want focused investigative reporting training and international collaboration.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Global Investigative Journalism Conference 2027 open for fellowship applications?
Yes. The fellowship application process is open.
Where will GIJC27 take place?
Rotterdam, the Netherlands.
What are the conference dates?
October 19–23, 2027, including the pre-conference day.
What is the application deadline?
January 31, 2027.
Is the fellowship fully funded?
Selected full fellows receive airfare, four hotel nights, registration, airport transfers and specified meals. Visa fees, per diem and transportation to the departure airport are excluded.
Are partial fellowships available?
GIJN may offer partial fellowships, depending on funding.
Who can apply?
Professional journalists working in print, online, television, radio, documentary, video or multimedia journalism.
Can freelance journalists apply?
Yes.
Is investigative journalism experience compulsory?
It is an advantage, but the official criteria do not make it a universal requirement.
Can journalists from all countries apply?
GIJN prioritizes journalists from the Global South and historically underrepresented groups. Applicants outside the priority-country list who cannot afford to attend may also apply and explain their circumstances.
Is there an age limit?
No general age limit is stated in the official fellowship announcement.
Is IELTS required?
No specific IELTS requirement is listed, but applicants need working English proficiency.
Are flight tickets covered?
Yes, for selected full fellows.
Is accommodation provided?
Yes. Full fellows receive four hotel nights.
Are visa fees covered?
No.
Is there a monthly salary?
No monthly salary is announced.
Is there an application fee?
The official announcement does not list an application fee.
How many fellows will be selected?
The final number has not yet been confirmed.
What must fellows do after the conference?
They must produce a related journalism story or give a presentation sharing knowledge gained at GIJC27.
Final Thoughts
The Global Investigative Journalism Conference 2027 offers an important professional development opportunity for journalists who want to strengthen their investigative reporting skills.
The conference will take place in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, from October 19 to 23, 2027.
It will bring together journalists and media professionals for practical training, expert discussions and international networking.
GIJN is offering competitive full fellowships that cover major participation expenses, including return airfare, four hotel nights, conference registration, airport transfers and specified meals.
However, applicants must cover visa fees, personal daily expenses and transportation to their departure airport.
The program is especially relevant to professional journalists from developing and transitioning countries, although the organizer also provides guidance for applicants outside its priority-country list.
The fellowship application deadline is January 31, 2027.
Interested candidates should review the official GIJC27 fellowship announcement and complete the authorized application form.
Last verified: October 17, 2026
Pathfinderly provides independent educational information about international opportunities. We are not affiliated with GIJN or the conference organizers. Fellowship benefits, eligibility conditions and application arrangements may change. Always verify the latest details through the official conference website before applying.