Young Journalists Initiative 2026 — International Anti-Corruption Conference

What this is

The International Anti-Corruption Conference is the largest global forum on corruption, convened by Transparency International. The Young Journalists Initiative funds a small group of early-career reporters to cover it.

Ten seats. That number is the most important fact about this opportunity: it is among the most competitive listed here, and applications should be prepared accordingly.

Who it is for

Working journalists — currently employed or freelancing with a demonstrable publication record — who are under 35 as of 6 December 2026. You need:

• Proven reporting experience
• English proficiency
• A genuine interest in anti-corruption reporting
• Access to a media outlet that will publish your coverage

What is expected in return

This is a working fellowship, not sponsored attendance. Participants commit to producing at least one report from the conference, and access to an outlet that will run it is an eligibility condition rather than a nicety.

What is covered

Return airfare to Punta Cana, five nights' accommodation, meals, and visa processing costs.

Applying

Applications close 15 July 2026. Given ten places, a specific pitch — what you would report, and where it would run — will matter more than a general statement of interest. Apply through the IACC using the official link.

Ten seats

It is worth repeating, because it should change how you approach the application. Ten places, for a global call, at the largest anti-corruption conference in the world. This is not a programme to apply to speculatively.

What actually strengthens an application here

Because it is a working fellowship, the panel is assessing whether you will produce publishable journalism:

• A specific story idea. Not "I would cover the conference" but what angle, and why it matters to your audience.
• Evidence you can place it. Access to an outlet that will run your work is an eligibility condition, not a bonus. A named editor beats a general claim.
• A relevant clip file. Prior reporting adjacent to corruption, governance, procurement or public finance does more than general reporting experience.

The obligation

Participants commit to producing at least one report from the conference. Treat that as the point of the fellowship rather than a condition attached to it.

Eligibility detail

Under 35 as of 6 December 2026, currently working as a journalist — staff or freelance — with proven experience and English proficiency.

What is covered

Return airfare to Punta Cana, five nights' accommodation, meals and visa processing costs. The Dominican Republic admits many nationalities without a visa; check your own position, as the conference falls in the first week of December when processing slows.

Applying

Applications close 15 July 2026.