Journalists against corruption: a seminar on investigative journalism was held in Uzbekistan
On 22–23 August 2025, an intensive training on investigative journalism took place in the Tashkent region, bringing together more than 30 journalists, bloggers, and editors from different regions of the country. The training was organized by the Anti-Corruption Agency of the Republic of Uzbekistan in jointly with the United Nations Development Program with the support of the European Union (EU).
The training programme included masterclasses on planning investigations, verifying sources, working with insiders and open data. Participants practiced digital security skills, explored opportunities and risks of using artificial intelligence in journalism, and discussed gender-sensitive approaches to covering corruption stories. The training concluded with group projects in the format of mini-investigations, developed and presented by the participants.
The event was held based on the results of a survey conducted among journalists and bloggers across the country within the framework of the joint project of the Anti-Corruption Agency and UNDP, funded by the EU. The survey aimed to identify the real needs of the media community and determine what knowledge and skills are most needed for effective investigations. The study showed that for journalists in Uzbekistan, the top priorities are legal literacy (77% of respondents), source verification (71%), and objectivity in reporting (64%). At the same time, the majority of respondents noted weak editorial support for investigative reporting.
To address these gaps, participants and experts analyzed the legal framework for journalists’ work, discussed digital security issues, and explored ways to strengthen editorial backing for investigations. Journalists emphasized the need for financial support for investigations, legal assistance before publication, ensuring security of collected data and communication channels, protection from pressure and threats from investigation subjects, as well as specific measures to protect female journalists from blackmail and harassment. Participants received practical recommendations: to study laws more thoroughly, consult with lawyers, use secure communication apps, and strictly maintain source anonymity.
This event was held within the framework of the joint project of the Anti-Corruption Agency and UNDP “Strengthening the National Anti-Corruption Ecosystem in Uzbekistan”, funded by the European Union.