In a move aimed at reinforcing freedom of expression and democracy worldwide, the Swedish government has announced an increase in support for independent media by SEK 70 million. This significant boost will be channeled towards one of the world’s foremost networks for investigative journalism, the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP).
The OCCRP: Supporting Journalists in Repressive Environments
The OCCRP works tirelessly to support journalists and human rights defenders in repressive environments, particularly in Ukraine, where its efforts have contributed significantly to the development of analysis and evidence for sanctions against Russia. The United States’ suspension of development assistance has hit the OCCRP hard, leaving a significant funding gap that Sweden is now eager to fill.
A Key Component of Sweden’s Reform Agenda
“Reinforcing freedom of expression and democracy is a key component of the Government’s reform agenda for development assistance,” says Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade Benjamin Dousa. This support to the OCCRP is part of these efforts, underscoring Sweden’s commitment to supporting human rights and democratic forces in vulnerable environments.
A Stronger Commitment to Independent Media
Sweden has a long history of supporting independent media worldwide, with a total of SEK 6.6 billion channelled via Sida to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in 2024. This represented approximately one quarter of Sida’s total development assistance and was the largest thematic area in Swedish development assistance.
Key Partnerships Enhanced
In addition to increasing support for the OCCRP, Sweden has also strengthened partnerships with other organizations that support independent journalists around the world. In 2024, the Government decided to expand assistance to two organizations working specifically to support journalists and defenders of human rights and freedoms in repressive environments, including Eastern Europe.
- Support to the European Endowment for Democracy was increased from SEK 20 million to SEK 35 million.
- Funding to the Prague Civil Society Centre was doubled from SEK 10 million to SEK 20 million.
A Global Network of Investigative Journalists
The OCCRP is a global network of investigative journalists with over 50 media actors in its global network. Founded in 2007, the organization publishes around 130 investigative articles per year in both Russian and English.
A New Era for Global Investigative Journalism
Sweden’s SEK 70 million investment in the OCCRP marks a significant boost to global investigative journalism. This increase in support will enable the OCCRP to continue its critical work, shedding light on corruption and organized crime around the world.
In conclusion, Sweden’s commitment to supporting independent media is unwavering, with this latest announcement marking a strong reinforcement of its reform agenda for development assistance. As the world grapples with increasingly complex challenges, investigative journalism remains a vital tool in promoting transparency and accountability.