Blog entry by Tadej Perčič
Global challenges such as climate change, migration, corruption, digital surveillance etc., rarely stop at national borders. Yet many newsrooms still work with limited international networks, making it harder to uncover stories that span multiple countries. Cross-border journalism, where reporters from different regions collaborate, is becoming essential.
For young journalists, these collaborations present unique opportunities. Working across cultures encourages more accurate reporting, reduces biases, and allows journalists to compare experiences and data that might otherwise remain isolated. It also strengthens the watchdog role of the media: corruption that seems “local” often has international layers, offshore connections, and shared political interests.
But cross-border work also raises ethical questions: How can journalists ensure equal partnership when resources vary significantly across countries? How can they protect sources in regions with weak press freedom? And how do they navigate cultural differences when defining what is newsworthy?
Successful cross-border journalism requires shared standards, mutual respect, and clear communication. When done right, it produces powerful stories that no single reporter or newsroom could uncover alone. In an interconnected world, international collaboration is the future of ethical and meaningful journalism.