“SIRAJ” Nominated for the 2026 Free Media Pioneer Award of IPI and IMS
SIRAJ – Paris:
The Syrian Investigative Reporting for Accountability Journalism (SIRAJ) has been shortlisted for the 2026 Free Media Pioneer Awards, presented by the International Press Institute (IPI), in partnership with the International Media Support (IMS).
Launched in 1996, the award honors media organizations that tackle the challenges facing journalism through new or innovative approaches to reporting, or for their resilience in the face of threats to press freedom.
Last year, it was granted to Hungary’s independent media in recognition of their ability to innovate and withstand the constant political and financial pressures they face.
Mohammad Bassiki, Executive Director of SIRAJ, said, “Being shortlisted for the 2026 Free Media Pioneer Award is a meaningful recognition of the work and resilience of the SIRAJ team. In a context shaped by conflict, restrictions, and major challenges for independent journalism, this acknowledgment encourages us to continue supporting investigative reporting, accountability, and press freedom in Syria and the region.”
“This nomination also means a great deal for the future of independent and investigative journalism in the new Syria, and reflects the importance of continuing to support free and professional journalistic voices.”
The International Press Institute (IPI) was founded in 1950 and is headquartered in Vienna, Austria. It brings together journalists and media professionals from more than 100 countries. The institute aims to support press freedom, protect against violations, and promote cooperation among journalists worldwide.
The International Media Support (IMS) is a nonprofit organization founded in 2001 and headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark. It provides support to journalism and media organizations in sensitive and high-risk environments.
SIRAJ is an independent organization and a leading institution in advancing investigative journalism in Syria. It is a member of the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN) and the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP).
Founded in November 2016, SIRAJ works to train Syrian journalists and produce in-depth investigations that expose corruption and human rights violations, and promote accountability, both inside Syria and across the diaspora.
