The 2024 EU Investigative Journalism Awards were presented on October 22 in Sarajevo at a ceremony organized by Thomson Media and hosted by Europe House. This prestigious regional award, supported by the European Union, celebrates the outstanding achievements of investigative journalists in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Key Takeaways
- The awards recognize the best investigative stories from the previous year in the Western Balkans and Turkiye.
- EU Ambassador Luigi Soreca emphasized the importance of independent journalism for democracy.
- A total of 53 submissions were received, covering diverse topics such as political corruption and human rights.
Commitment To Media Freedom
Addressing the audience, EU Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Luigi Soreca, highlighted the EU’s commitment to supporting independent journalism and media freedom in the region. He stated, "Professional journalism, free from fear and intimidation, is one of the foundation stones of any democracy. Citizens have the right to know if public money is being misused or if companies, institutions, or individuals are engaged in harmful activities."
Ambassador Soreca paid tribute to the bravery and dedication of investigative journalists, noting that they often face threats and attacks. He stressed that strengthening freedom of expression and media is crucial for Bosnia and Herzegovina’s progress toward EU integration.
The Application Process
Sanja Lazić, a representative of Thomson Media, shared insights about this year’s application process, revealing that 53 submissions were received. These covered a wide range of topics, including:
- Political corruption
- Human rights violations
- Women’s rights
- Environmental issues
Lazić remarked, "The quality of the stories we received this year demonstrates the vital role investigative journalism continues to play in our societies."
Award Winners
The jury for this year’s award consisted of renowned media professionals, including Nidžara Ahmetašević, Ozren Kebo, and Dragana Dardic, Executive Director at NGO Helsinki Citizens’ Assembly Banja Luka.
Third Place (Shared)
- Azra Omerović and Zinaida Đelilović: Their investigation uncovered the awarding of a Doctor of Dentistry degree by the International University in Goražde despite having no enrolled students, leading to arrests and the exposure of a fraudulent diploma scheme.
- Azhar Kalamujić: His investigation into public parking lots in Sarajevo revealed criminal activities and abuses, presenting findings clearly and comprehensively.
Second Place
- Dejan Rakita: His investigation, "TRGOVSKA GORA—Why and How It Was Chosen, What Is Being Built, and the Dangers It Poses," examined critical environmental issues and included perspectives from various stakeholders.
First Place (Shared)
- Arduana Pribinja: Her groundbreaking report revealed disturbing testimonies from women facing sexual harassment during medically assisted reproduction at Zenica Hospital.
- Nino Bilajac and Selma Učanbarlić: Their co-investigation into eMagnetix’s fraudulent practices provided a comprehensive view of the issue, praised for its depth and originality.
Looking Ahead
The national-level competition winners will have the opportunity to compete for regional recognition, with the best investigative stories being judged by a special jury. The regional competition winners will be announced in the last week of October in Ankara, Turkey.
About The EU Award For Investigative Journalism
The EU Award for Investigative Journalism is organized by Thomson Media, dedicated to media development and promoting press freedom worldwide. Funded by the European Union, the project involves a consortium of various organizations committed to enhancing journalism in the region.
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