Understanding the EJN Reporting Fellowships: A Deep Dive for Journalists

The world’s oceans are facing unprecedented challenges, from pollution and overfishing to the impacts of climate change. Addressing these complex issues requires informed public discourse, and at the heart of this lies impactful journalism. Recognizing this, Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) has established a significant fellowship program designed to empower journalists to cover critical international environmental agreements. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the EJN Reporting Fellowships, focusing on the program for journalists to cover the BBNJ COP1, offering insights into its purpose, benefits, eligibility, and the application process. Understanding these fellowships is key for any journalist looking to contribute to the vital conversation surrounding ocean conservation and governance.

The Importance of Covering the BBNJ COP1

The BBNJ COP1, officially the first meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the new legally binding instrument on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity of areas beyond national jurisdiction (BBNJ Agreement), represents a landmark moment in international environmental law. For decades, the high seas, which constitute roughly two-thirds of the world’s oceans, have largely operated under a fragmented legal framework. The BBNJ Agreement, adopted in 2023, aims to change this by providing a comprehensive framework for establishing marine protected areas (MPAs) in areas beyond national jurisdiction, conducting environmental impact assessments for activities in these areas, and promoting the fair and equitable sharing of benefits from marine genetic resources.

The significance of this agreement cannot be overstated. It offers a crucial tool for protecting marine ecosystems, conserving biodiversity, and ensuring the sustainable use of ocean resources in the face of growing human pressures. However, the successful implementation of the BBNJ Agreement hinges on widespread understanding and public engagement, which is where journalists play a pivotal role. By covering the BBNJ COP1, journalists can shed light on the complex negotiations, the scientific underpinnings of the agreement, and its potential implications for global conservation efforts and the livelihoods of coastal communities. The EJN Reporting Fellowships are specifically designed to support this vital journalistic endeavor, ensuring that this historic event receives the global attention it deserves.

EJN Reporting Fellowships: A Gateway for Ocean Journalism

Internews’ Earth Journalism Network (EJN) is a global program that supports environmental journalists by providing training, resources, and networking opportunities. Its mission is to help journalists produce more accurate, compelling, and impactful stories about the environment, thereby increasing public awareness and driving positive change. The EJN Reporting Fellowships are a cornerstone of this mission, offering journalists the chance to cover significant international environmental events and produce in-depth reporting on critical issues.

The fellowship program for journalists to cover the BBNJ COP1 in New York City is a prime example of EJN’s commitment to fostering informed coverage of ocean governance. This fellowship recognizes that attending such high-level international meetings can be prohibitively expensive for many journalists, especially those from developing countries or working for smaller media outlets. By providing financial and logistical support, EJN removes these barriers, enabling a diverse group of journalists to gain firsthand experience and report on the proceedings. The program aims to ensure that the discussions and decisions made at the COP1 are communicated effectively to a global audience, promoting transparency and accountability.

Fellowship Details: What the Program Offers

The EJN Reporting Fellowships for the BBNJ COP1 are structured to provide comprehensive support to selected journalists. The program aims to cover the essential costs associated with attending the conference, allowing fellows to focus entirely on their reporting.

Financial and Logistical Support

For the BBNJ COP1, EJN plans to award fellowships to 10 journalists. A key aspect of this program is its commitment to diversity, with an aim for equal representation from the Global North and Global South. This ensures a wide range of perspectives and reporting styles are brought to the coverage of the BBNJ Agreement.

The fellowship benefits include:

• Travel Expenses: EJN will cover non-refundable economy-class airfare to and from New York City. This is a significant benefit, as international travel can be a major obstacle for journalists.
• Accommodation: The program provides accommodation for the duration of the fellowship, ensuring fellows have a comfortable place to stay while in New York.
• Meals and Per Diem: Fellows will receive a per diem to cover daily expenses, including meals and other incidentals. This helps manage the cost of living in a major city like New York.
• Travel Medical Insurance: Comprehensive travel medical insurance will be provided, offering peace of mind during the trip.
• Ground Transportation: Costs related to ground transportation in New York City, such as travel between the accommodation and the conference venue, will also be covered.
• Visa Costs: While the process of obtaining necessary visas is the individual responsibility of the fellow, EJN will reimburse visa costs. This acknowledges the bureaucratic hurdles that can sometimes accompany international travel.
• Press Accreditation: EJN will facilitate the press accreditation process, ensuring that fellows have official access to the conference proceedings.
• Logistical Support: Beyond financial aid, EJN will provide logistical support throughout the fellowship, assisting fellows with practical aspects of their stay and reporting.

Fellowship Timeline

The BBNJ COP1 is scheduled to take place from January 11-22, 2027, in New York City. Fellows are expected to arrive on January 9, 2027, to allow for settling in and preparing for the conference. An Orientation Day, organized by EJN staff, will be held on January 10, 2027. This orientation is crucial for fellows to understand the context of the BBNJ Agreement, the conference agenda, and EJN’s expectations for their reporting. Departure is scheduled for January 23, 2027. This extended period allows fellows to cover the entire duration of the crucial negotiations and discussions.

Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?

EJN is looking for dedicated and experienced journalists who are passionate about ocean issues and possess the skills to produce high-quality reporting. The eligibility criteria are designed to identify candidates who can make the most of this opportunity and contribute meaningfully to the coverage of the BBNJ COP1.

Professional Background and Experience

To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Professional Journalist: Applicants must be professional journalists representing an established media house. This means they should be currently employed by or regularly contributing to a recognized news organization.
• Coastal Country Representation: The journalist must be reporting from a coastal country. This criterion emphasizes the direct relevance of ocean issues to communities living in coastal regions.
• Ocean Reporting Experience: A strong background in reporting on ocean-related issues is essential. Examples of relevant topics include illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, marine protected areas (MPAs), the blue economy, sustainable fisheries, and marine pollution. This ensures that fellows have a foundational understanding of the subject matter.
• Story Ideas: Applicants must clearly articulate the types of stories they intend to pursue during their coverage of the BBNJ COP1. This demonstrates their foresight and journalistic initiative.
• Availability: Full availability for the entire conference period in New York City is mandatory, including arrival on January 9, 2027, and departure on January 23, 2027.
• English Proficiency: A good command of the English language is required, as it is the primary language of international negotiations and communication at the conference.

Application Requirements

In addition to meeting the experience and background criteria, applicants must submit several supporting documents:

• Resume/CV: An up-to-date resume or curriculum vitae detailing professional experience, education, and relevant skills.
• Letter of Support: A letter of support from an editor, producer, or supervisor is crucial. This letter must confirm that the journalist’s reports and stories will be published or broadcast by an established media outlet. Freelance journalists are welcome to apply but must provide a similar letter of support from a media outlet for which they intend to report. This ensures that the fellowship’s output will reach a wider audience.
• Work Samples: Recent, relevant journalistic work samples focusing on ocean issues are required. These can be submitted as documents or web links. Stories can be in any language, but they must be accompanied by a short English synopsis. The work samples must have clear bylines and should have been published within the last 12 months, demonstrating current journalistic practice and expertise.

Judging Criteria: What Makes a Strong Candidate?

EJN seeks to identify journalists who not only meet the basic eligibility requirements but also demonstrate a strong commitment to ocean reporting and a clear potential to produce impactful stories. The judging criteria are designed to assess these qualities.

Demonstrated Expertise and Commitment

The selection committee will be looking for applicants who exhibit:

• Experience in Ocean and Environmental Topics: A proven track record of covering ocean issues and other environmental topics is a primary consideration. This includes the depth and breadth of their previous reporting.
• Long-Term Commitment: Candidates who show a long-term commitment to the field of journalism and a dedication to continuing to report on ocean topics will be favored. This suggests that the fellowship will contribute to a sustained effort in ocean journalism.
• Media House Relationship and Support: A strong relationship with an established media house, evidenced by a signed letter of support from an editor or supervisor, is essential. This commitment from the media outlet ensures that the work produced during the fellowship will be published or broadcast, maximizing its impact.

These criteria help EJN identify journalists who are not only capable of covering the BBNJ COP1 but are also likely to use the experience to further their careers and contribute to public understanding of critical ocean issues.

The Application Process: How to Apply

Applying for the EJN Reporting Fellowships requires careful attention to detail and timely submission of all required materials. The application process is designed to be straightforward, but it is important to start early to gather all necessary documents.

Step-by-Step Application Guide

1. Review Eligibility and Criteria: Thoroughly read and understand all eligibility requirements and judging criteria to ensure you are a suitable candidate.
2. Gather Required Documents:

• Prepare your up-to-date resume or CV.
• Secure a letter of support from your editor, producer, or supervisor. If you are a freelancer, obtain a letter from a media outlet you plan to report for.
• Select your best recent work samples (published within the last 12 months) that focus on ocean issues. Ensure they have clear bylines and include English synopses if not originally in English.

3. Develop Your Story Pitch: Clearly outline the specific stories you plan to pursue at the BBNJ COP1. Think about unique angles and how you can bring fresh perspectives to the coverage.
4. Complete the Online Application Form: Access the application through the provided link on the EJN website. Fill out all sections of the form accurately and completely.
5. Upload Supporting Documents: Upload your resume/CV, letter of support, and work samples as instructed in the application form. Ensure all files are in the correct format and size.
6. Submit Your Application: Double-check all your entries and uploaded documents before submitting your application by the deadline.

Deadline and Submission

The deadline for applications is October 27, 2026. It is crucial to submit your application well before this date to avoid any last-minute technical issues. Late applications will not be considered. The application portal will be available on the EJN website, and interested journalists should visit the official EJN opportunities page for the direct application link.

Preparing for the Fellowship: Maximizing the Opportunity

For journalists selected for the EJN Reporting Fellowships, the experience of attending the BBNJ COP1 offers a unique opportunity to deepen their understanding of international ocean governance and produce impactful stories. To make the most of this experience, fellows should prepare thoroughly.

Pre-Conference Preparation

• Research the BBNJ Agreement: Familiarize yourself with the text of the BBNJ Agreement, its objectives, and the key issues that will be discussed at COP1. Understanding the historical context and the scientific basis for the agreement is also important.
• Identify Key Stakeholders: Research the main parties involved in the negotiations, including country delegations, intergovernmental organizations, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Understanding their positions and interests will help in framing your reporting.
• Develop Story Angles: Based on your research and the story ideas you submitted in your application, refine your potential story angles. Consider what unique contributions you can make to the global coverage of the COP.
• Network with Fellow Journalists: Connect with other fellows before the conference. This can lead to collaborative opportunities and shared insights during the event.
• Logistics: Ensure your travel documents are in order, particularly your passport and any necessary visas. Confirm your flight and accommodation details.

During the Fellowship: Reporting and Engagement

• Attend Plenary Sessions and Side Events: Actively participate in the official proceedings, including plenary sessions, committee meetings, and press briefings. Also, attend relevant side events and workshops to gain broader perspectives.
• Conduct Interviews: Utilize the opportunity to interview delegates, scientists, policymakers, and representatives from civil society organizations. Build relationships with key individuals to gather diverse viewpoints.
• Utilize EJN Resources: Take full advantage of the orientation session, the support provided by EJN staff, and any networking opportunities with fellow journalists.
• Produce High-Quality Content: Focus on producing well-researched, accurate, and engaging stories that adhere to journalistic standards. Ensure your reporting reflects the complexities of the negotiations and their implications.
• Share Your Work: Once your stories are published or broadcast, share them widely through your media outlet and on social media platforms. This helps amplify the impact of your reporting and the fellowship.

The Broader Impact: Journalism and Ocean Conservation

The EJN Reporting Fellowships for the BBNJ COP1 are more than just a travel opportunity; they are an investment in informed public discourse and, ultimately, in the health of our oceans. By equipping journalists with the resources and access needed to cover critical international environmental negotiations, EJN fosters a more informed global citizenry.

Journalism plays a vital role in holding governments and international bodies accountable for their commitments to ocean conservation. Through compelling storytelling, journalists can translate complex scientific and legal information into accessible narratives that resonate with the public. This increased awareness can, in turn, create public pressure for stronger environmental policies and more effective implementation of agreements like the BBNJ.

Furthermore, by supporting journalists from diverse backgrounds, particularly from coastal nations in the Global South, EJN ensures that a wider range of voices and perspectives are heard. These journalists often have a more direct connection to the impacts of ocean degradation and can bring unique insights to the global conversation. Their reporting can highlight local challenges and solutions, contributing to a more equitable and effective approach to ocean governance. The success of the BBNJ Agreement will depend on global cooperation and understanding, and high-quality journalism is indispensable in achieving this.

Conclusion

The EJN Reporting Fellowships for journalists covering the BBNJ COP1 represent a significant opportunity for professional development and impactful storytelling. By providing financial and logistical support, EJN empowers journalists to report on one of the most critical international environmental negotiations of our time. The fellowship’s focus on experienced journalists from coastal countries, coupled with a commitment to diverse representation, ensures that the coverage will be comprehensive and insightful. For journalists passionate about ocean issues, understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and the broader significance of this fellowship is the first step toward contributing to the vital global dialogue on ocean conservation and sustainable use. The dedication of journalists to covering these complex issues is essential for driving awareness, fostering accountability, and ultimately, safeguarding the future of our planet’s oceans.