UNESCO has opened a new Call for Proposals under its Global Media Defence Fund, with submissions accepted until Friday, 2 January 2026, 23:59 UTC+1. Building on five previous calls, the Fund continues to support initiatives aimed at defending journalists. Investigative journalism plays a critical role in exposing crimes against journalists and reducing impunity, yet strong legal protections are essential to ensure reporters can safely carry out their work without fear of retaliation. UNESCO’s recent survey highlights that 68% of judicial actors note increasingly innovative strategic lawsuits against journalists and media outlets, underscoring the urgent need for legal safeguards.
Journalists today face a wide range of legal threats beyond traditional defamation claims, including allegations of terrorism, anti-state activity, financial crimes, and spreading “false news.” These complex and evolving tactics make it challenging for media professionals to operate freely. UNESCO’s survey of media lawyers further reveals that one in three lawyers encounter significant barriers when defending journalists, such as limited resources, insufficient specialized training, and fear of reprisals.
The new Call for Proposals seeks projects that strengthen legal support for journalists, reinforce accountability, and help break the cycle of impunity. Priority areas include rapid legal assistance and mechanisms to provide immediate support, peer networks, and gender-specific protections; investigative journalism initiatives that hold justice systems accountable while enhancing journalist safety; and strategic litigation to safeguard independent, free, and pluralistic media ecosystems at national and regional levels.
Eligible applicants include specialized not-for-profit organizations such as NGOs, women-led and women’s rights organizations, media associations, journalists’ unions, lawyers’ associations, pro bono legal aid organizations, investigative journalism networks, foundations, and academic institutions. Applicants must have been active and registered for at least two years and meet the criteria outlined in the Call’s Terms of Reference. Financial grants for selected projects will range from USD 15,000 to USD 50,000.
