Skopje - Today, USAID launched the Project for Investigative Journalism and Cooperation Between Media and Civil Society as part of USAID’s efforts to strengthen independent media in Macedonia. The project aims to improve cooperation between journalists and civil society through a series of debates and workshops, and will contribute towards more independent investigative stories by offering journalists small grants and mentorships for investigative stories.

“Creating networks, peer support and cooperation are crucial in terms of learning, practicing, and sharing challenges and experiences,” said Michael Stievater, Director of the USAID Macedonia Office of Democracy and Local Governance.  “This project will provide journalists with a unique opportunity to gain from their peers’ experiences, identify common issues, investigate and speak out on vital issues.

The project, which will run until July 2015 will award 40 small grants to journalists for writing investigative stories and 10 scholarships for journalists to attend the BIRN School for Investigative Journalism. More than 100 stories will be published on a new internet media outlet that will be initiated to promote independent and investigative journalism. The project will also hold 20 discussion groups and workshops for journalists and civil society organizations on covering topics of public interest.

NOTES TO EDITORS:
The Balkan Investigative Reporting Network (BIRN) Macedonia, an independent NGO, was founded in 2004 as part of the regional Balkan Investigative Reporting Network. This project is implemented in partnership with the Center for Civic Communication, the Center for Investigative Journalism Scoop Macedonia, the KOD investigative TV program and the daily newspaper Koha.  For more information please visit www.birn.eu.com.

The American people, through USAID, have invested over $500 million in Macedonia since 1993. USAID is working with the people of Macedonia to create jobs, strengthen democratic institutions and practices, enhance integrated education, and prepare students for the workforce. These initiatives improve the quality of life and support Macedonia’s transition to a stable and prosperous democracy. USAID provides economic and humanitarian assistance in more than 100 countries. For more information please visit http://macedonia.usaid.gov and USAID FB page http://www.facebook.com/USAIDMacedonia.