Columbia University honors ICIJ’s World Bank probe
Evicted and Abandoned has been named an Oakes Award finalist, marking the 11th time the project has been recognized by journalism prizes. Panama Papers helps break new reporting ground in Mongolia
Journalists in Mongolia found politicians with links to offshore companies in the Panama Papers, sparking widespread public debate. Debate surrounds World Bank's proposed new safeguards rules
ICIJ analyzes five of the most significant changes to the bank’s social and environmental protection policies amid criticism from activists. New Panama Papers series exposes secret deals in Africa
New revelations published in collaboration with more than a dozen news outlets in Africa expose details about corporate secrecy and hidden wealth. ICIJ at TED: Panama Papers and a ‘new era for journalism’
African nations respond to Panama Papers
New EU rules to tackle money-laundering and tax abuse
'Race to the bottom' warning as UK cuts corporate tax rate
ICIJ condemns conviction of LuxLeaks whistleblowers
Two whistleblowers have been handed suspended prison sentences and fined, but have already announced their plans to appeal. Global joint investigation to be proposed at special tax meeting
US prosecutor opens investigation into 'Panama Papers matters'
Panama Papers source offers data to governments, hints at more
Venezuela and Panama to launch Panama Papers inquiry
Mossack Fonseca's US operations under pressure, island offices closed
Three tips for searching the Offshore Leaks database
There are a number of ways to explore the 320,000 offshore entities in ICIJ's Offshore Leaks database and unlock the secrets of this secretive world EU Panama Papers inquiry to call top officials to the stand
In photos: Evicted tribe say they’re left with nowhere to go
Tribes in Tanzania are facing eviction after the World Bank board granted a massive agribusiness project a waiver that exempts it from following one of the bank’s policies. Panama Papers wins top honor at Data Journalism Awards
ICIJ, Süddeutsche Zeitung and more than 100 media organizations have together won the Investigation of the Year award. ICIJ member released from Azerbaijan prison
Investigative reporter and ICIJ member Khadija Ismayilova has been released from an Azerbaijani prison after spending a year and a half behind bars. Luxembourg prosecutors seek jail time for whistleblowers
Prosecutors requested jail and fines for whistleblowers and a journalist who helped reveal industrial-scale tax avoidance schemes. ICIJ releases Panama Papers offshore company data
ICIJ has published a searchable database that strips away the secrecy of nearly 214,000 offshore entities created in 21 jurisdictions. US officials react to Panama Papers with get-tough measures
The Obama administration has unveiled a series of new proposals that would crack down on offshore secrecy and illicit financial transactions. ICIJ investigations honored with top journalism prizes
ICIJ’s Evicted and Abandoned and Fatal Extraction investigations have been honored with 2015 Overseas Press Club awards. Coming soon: Panama Papers offshore companies data
On May 9 ICIJ will publish a searchable database with details on more than 200,000 offshore entities that are part of the Panama Papers. Luxembourg trial an affront to journalism, whistleblowers
ICIJ strongly condemns the upcoming trial of an ICIJ member and two whistleblowers by Luxembourg prosecutors over leaked documents. NY regulator demands details of banks' Panama dealings
More than a dozen banks have been ordered to turn over details of their communications with Panama law firm Mossack Fonseca. Panama police raid Mossack Fonseca as fallout continues
The search of the law firm's headquarters comes after a number of raids and global action taken in response to the Panama Papers revelations. 'Nowhere to go:' evicted woman confronts World Bank watchdog
Forced displacement is one of the most common and intractable harms caused by World Bank projects, a new report has found. British PM announces reform in wake of Panama Papers
David Cameron has tried to defuse public anger over details of his offshore holdings, announcing new steps aimed at boosting transparency. Investigations begin as world responds to Panama Papers
The Prime Minister of Iceland has stepped aside in the wake of Panama Papers revelations. Offshore links of more than 140 politicians and officials exposed
A new ICIJ investigation based on a trove of more than 11 million files reveals the offshore links of some of the planet’s most prominent people. World Bank resurrects program tied to evictions, study claims
A $600 million loan to Ethiopia’s government lacks proper oversight and “reinvents” a previous loan that was used to finance violent evictions, a new report says. Ministers agree to new EU rule to curb corporate tax dodging
Multinational companies operating in Europe will be required to report profits, taxes and activities on a country-by-country basis. Leaked files reveal new detail in French UBS tax evasion case
The Swiss bank is preparing to face court and the possibility of a multibillion-euro fine over allegations it knowingly helped French clients evade tax. Report on HSBC's rocky road to reform in US to be made public
A judge has ruled that a report on HSBC's attempts to fix compliance issues should be public, despite resistance from both the bank and the government. US targets 'dirty money' hidden in luxury real estate
Investigators will identify and track secret buyers of high-end properties to crack down on a popular method of money laundering. LuxLeaks whistleblowers thanked as tax probes continue
Belgium has been ordered to recover $765 million in unpaid taxes from 35 multinational companies in the latest ruling against corporate tax breaks. Art world's offshore links to star in 'trial of the missing millions'
The trial of a renowned art-dealer accused of tax fraud worth $600 million will reveal much about the secretive world of art trading and collecting. Seven times tax evasion made headlines in 2015
From tax cheats to heated policy debates, 2015 has been a year of tax scandals, reforms and international agreements. World Bank rolls out reforms to address resettlement failures
After years of delay, the bank is addressing sweeping failures in its oversight of projects that force people from their land or harm their livelihoods. Human rights abusers spend $168m on US lobbying and PR
Azerbaijan is among a group of 50 countries with poor human rights records spending millions to push an agenda. Four ways to embrace a cross-border state of mind
A recent global journalism conference highlighted an important new trend: expanding perspectives through transnational collaboration. Companies grilled by EU politicians over tax dodging
IKEA, Disney, Google and more faced questions from a committee setup to investigate tax rulings after ICIJ's Luxembourg Leaks investigation. LuxLeaks anniversary marked with protests, calls for action
Protesters took to the streets to commemorate the launch of ICIJ's investigation into corporations slashing tax bills by billions. Falciani absent as Swiss begin criminal trial over HSBC data
Prosecutors opened the criminal trial of a former HSBC IT worker accused of theft, but the defendant refused to leave France to face charges. ICIJ projects win awards for innovation, collaboration
Luxembourg Leaks, Swiss Leaks and Fatal Extraction investigations honored with 2015 EPPY awards. Evicted families 'are angry and feel like nobody cares'
Q & A: Jocelyn Zuckerman was stunned by the destruction to both the land and people's lives she saw while reporting on an Indonesian palm oil plantation. New EU transparency rule to close corporate tax loophole
European finance ministers agree to new rules that will force countries to share information on tax deals granted to multinational corporations. Evicted and Abandoned investigation wins top award
The project by ICIJ, HuffPost and partners has been awarded a prize for innovative investigative journalism from the Online News Association. Ethiopia targets former World Bank translator in crackdown on dissent
A former bank worker, who also assisted ICIJ during a reporting trip, faces life in prison for charges that rights groups decry as "absurd." How Africa’s journalists united for a pioneering collaboration
Local reporters spent months unearthing court records and hushed-up government audits to reveal the impact of mining across the continent. ICIJ condemns conviction of member Khadija Ismayilova
ICIJ director Gerard Ryle calls for the release of investigative reporter Khadija Ismayilova, who has been sentenced to prison in Azerbaijan. How we used multimedia to tell the Fatal Extraction story
How do you take stunning visuals, unique data, and rare documents and turn it all into a compelling story? Here's what we learned while investigating Australian mining's impact in Africa. World Bank safeguard proposal 'dangerous,' rights groups say
Advocacy groups say the bank's proposed new standards will "vastly weaken protections" for communities caught in the path of development. Reform signals new strategy against lethal kidney disease
As a deadly epidemic plagues agricultural workers, Costa Rica's president announced new rules to limit heat stress and dehydration. 'We didn't get everything right': Lord Green concedes on HSBC
A former head of the embattled bank and current member of Britain’s House of Lords has conceded compliance failures at the bank’s Swiss branch. World Bank overlooked families in Nepal project, panel finds
The World Bank has again been faulted, this time for failing to properly count and compensate families displaced by a high-voltage power line in Nepal. Senator calls for laws to reform Australian mining in Africa
An Australian Greens senator is considering proposing new legislation in response to ICIJ's investigation of Australian companies in Africa. IFC claims legal immunity in suit, warns of 'chilling effect'
The World Bank Group is asking a US judge to toss a lawsuit filed against it by a fishing clan in India, citing a 1945 law. New project shines light on impact of African mining boom
ICIJ's latest collaboration reveals deaths, conflicts and questionable practices by Australian mining companies across Africa. New study maps the 'Anatomy of a Global Investigation'
ICIJ's work has achieved global impact. But how do you actually pull together a global collaboration? Here are some practical tips from a new report. Leaked document: World Bank rife with 'fear and retaliation'
Many bank employees complain managers are shutting down internal debate and ruling by fear, according to leaked documents. How 50 reporters exposed the World Bank’s broken promises
From confronting Honduran Army officers to wrangling huge datasets, ICIJ and its partners approached the World Bank investigation as team. World Bank workers losing faith in leadership, survey reveals
An internal staff survey reveals a lack of faith in the bank's senior leadership, and concerns about trust and openness within the organization. LuxLeaks, SwissLeaks win top Data Journalism Award
ICIJ pays tribute to whistleblowers and journalist facing charges as team of more than 200 honored with top prize. EU unveils action plan to tackle corporate tax dodging
Following revelations of tax avoidance in ICIJ's LuxLeaks investigation, companies may now have to report taxes on a country-by-country basis. By the numbers: World Bank's lesser-known arm, the IFC
The International Finance Corporation has expanded rapidly in recent years, attracting attention for some of its high-risk private sector loans. Data chefs and problem-solvers: Meet ICIJ's global data team
ICIJ's data unit has been tapping into the power of data for 12 months now. Here, we tap into their minds with some non-data questions... HSBC pays Swiss authorities record-breaking fine
Four months after a historic police raid, Geneva's prosecutor dropped a criminal probe into HSBC, but left the bank with a warning. Belgium to reclaim €540m taxes from HSBC accounts
Belgian authorities have reportedly investigated about 1000 client accounts from HSBC’s Swiss branch. Former World Bank officials raise doubts about reform plan
ICIJ digs into World Bank statements and reports to explore whether changes the bank has promised will fix the flaws in its resettlement policy. Tax evaders to be outed under historic Swiss-EU accord
Europe’s Swiss bank account holders will have their information automatically shared with their home country under a new tax transparency agreement. Under pressure, Amazon ends Luxembourg profit funneling
By reporting revenue in other countries, Amazon may face higher tax bills, but could also pressure other multinationals to follow suit. 'Be paranoid': How one reporter learned the danger of metadata
If you think that authorities have more important things to do than investigate the source of leaks, think again. ICIJ welcomes new members with focus on collaboration
Eight new ICIJ members hail from three continents, and range from specialist researchers to reporting veterans, across all media. Lawsuit accuses World Bank arm of “mission failure”
A claim filed in a US court on Thursday charges that the development lender ignored risks in financing a big coal-power plant in India. Charges against LuxLeaks reporter threaten press freedom
ICIJ condemns the indictment of journalist and ICIJ member Edouard Perrin by Luxembourg prosecutors over leaked documents that revealed widespread aggressive tax avoidance. Data dive: How to mine World Bank resettlement documents
ICIJ spent 11 months going through World Bank reports. Here's what we learned, and some tips for getting your head around the documents and data. ICIJ's World Bank probe draws global attention
Media outlets around the world have published the findings of the Evicted and Abandoned investigation, but the bank itself is yet to provide a full response. Ricci heiress convicted for tax evasion using HSBC
The heiress to a major fashion empire has been sentenced to prison for tax evasion in the first of 50 cases expected in France. New investigation reveals 3.4m displaced by World Bank
Journalists reporting from more than 20 countries expose flaws in loan programs around the world. French set €1b bail as HSBC probe goes beyond Swiss branch
Prosecutors are expanding a criminal investigation to include the bank's global operations, as tax policy becomes a UK election issue. More regulatory issues 'likely,' HSBC exec reportedly admits
Banking giant HSBC continues to face questions about its ability to block transactions that facilitate law breaking. Offshore Leaks honored with Indian journalism prize
The KCK Award for ICIJ's investigation comes as the Indian government starts to crack down on "black cash" held in offshore accounts. Criminal trial requested as HSBC faces growing pressure
A former HSBC boss and current UK politician has denied “being asleep” at the wheel of the bank, as authorities continue building cases against HSBC. 'Fundamental change' in EU tax rules after LuxLeaks
European countries will share details of previously secret tax deals as part of a proposed new rule that cites ICIJ's investigation as a key motivator. How ICIJ reminded me why I became a journalist
I’m not new to collaborative journalism. But I’ve never worked in a collaboration with the scope, ambition and sense of mission that I found at ICIJ. BBC Trust chair asked to resign amid HSBC revelations
HSBC's leaders faced another session of intense questioning in the UK as the fallout over Swiss Leaks continues. As World Bank admits failures, safeguards questions remain
The bank's sudden about-turn on evictions linked to its projects comes days after ICIJ and partners submitted questions on resettlement policies. World Bank president admits 'deep concern' on evictions
The bank has conceded broad failures in its resettlement policies, and admitted a lack of oversight of projects and borrowers. World Bank denies blame for violent Ethiopian evictions
The organization said it will not press for compensation for families forced from homes during a mass eviction linked to a World Bank project. Behind the scenes of ICIJ's biggest-ever collaboration
“I can’t say much, but do you remember the Greek Lagarde list? Well, we might have a story for you...” So began ICIJ's most ambitious project to date. 'Swiss managers most accountable' for issues: HSBC
HSBC’s chief and chairman have conceded the Swiss Leaks scandal has caused “horrible reputational damage” during a UK hearing on the issue. New penalties for bankers aiding tax evasion in UK
Britain mulls new laws against tax evasion, as HSBC chief's own private Swiss bank account is revealed. HSBC US committee takes month off political donations
In the month prior to Swiss Leaks, the bank's typically active U.S. political committee made no contributions. HSBC's Geneva office raided as Swiss open investigation
Swiss prosecutor opens an investigation into allegations of “aggravated money-laundering” following ICIJ's Swiss Leaks revelations. HSBC apologizes as more government probes begin
The global banking giant HSBC has issued a formal apology via full-page newspaper ads in the UK, but faces more investigations. ICIJ work on offshore secrecy awarded Polk prize
The team behind ICIJ’s long-running tax havens and offshore secrecy investigation has been recognized with a top journalism award. Swiss Leaks a microcosm of billions lost annually in Africa
From arms dealers and diamond traders to billions lost in illicit outflows, Swiss Leaks touches on a significant issue for Africa. Politicians, regulators face questions over HSBC cases
The bank will face committee investigations in the UK, and politicians in the US are weighing Loretta Lynch's attorney general nomination. Swiss Leaks frequently asked questions answered
Will ICIJ release all the data? Does ICIJ plan to give the list to governments? Your questions answered, and more. HSBC could face prosecution, as Swiss Leaks fallout continues
Pressure is intensifying in multiple countries, as prosecutors consider charging the bank, and governments face questions. Candid comments reveal client-banker relationships
Twelve client notes that show the real people, real emotions, and real (sometimes First World) problems dotted through the Swiss Leaks files. Investigations promised as officials respond to Swiss Leaks
Public officials across the globe have condemned the behavior of HSBC, and have called for new investigations, laws, and crackdowns. Swiss Leaks lifts the veil on a secretive banking system
ICIJ and Le Monde's Swiss Leaks project has brought together more than 140 journalists to investigate a trove of leaked bank files. Calls for EU LuxLeaks inquiry rejected despite support
The push for a LuxLeaks inquiry committee has been blocked by the leaders of the European Parliament. Leaked report says World Bank violated own rules in Ethiopia
The World Bank repeatedly broke its own rules while funding a project dogged by complaints about forced evictions of thousands of indigenous people. Austria's leaders pay tribute to reporter Kurt Kuch
One of Austria’s top journalists and a key reporter on ICIJ’s Offshore Leaks project has been remembered as fearless, determined and principled. LuxLeaks a 'game-changer' for Europe: Finance Minister
Luxembourg gives up its tax rulings fight with the EU, and says the world is now paying attention to the issue. Whistleblowers should be protected, not prosecuted
Luxembourg's decision to indict a young whistleblower is a threat to transparency and accountability in the jurisdiction and elsewhere 'I acted from conviction:' PwC whistleblower speaks out
A former employee of the audit firm has been charged for leaking confidential Luxembourg tax rulings. Spotlight on 'weakened' Juncker as officials pledge action
Juncker promises to push for tax reform after new leak, but says LuxLeaks affair has "weakened" him. PwC, Shire grilled by UK MPs as LuxLeaks response continues
UK, Australia, and Europe announce further plans for response and tax reform, as PricewaterhouseCoopers' UK tax head is accused of lying. ICIJ calls for immediate release of arrested Azeri reporter
We condemn the arrest of investigative journalist and ICIJ member Khadija Ismayilova, who was taken into custody in Azerbaijan. Europe to fast-track action against 'sweetheart' deals
The European Commission has pledged to act on demands for tax reform with new rules to be unveiled within months. Journalism that gets results needs supporters who care
At the core of our mission is journalism that has an impact, that holds the powerful accountable. And here's one way you can help... Calls for reform and a resignation over LuxLeaks
Audit firm opens new offices, Juncker stares down a censure motion, and authorities announce investigations using Lux Leaks documents. Visualizing Luxembourg: Not your typical tax haven
Corporate tax strategies aren't easy to visualize or simple to explain. Enter Bob, the star of ICIJ's animation... ‘Lux Leaks’ causes ‘tax storm’ of government, media response
Groups within the European Parliament have gathered enough support to force a vote on Jean-Claude Juncker's fitness to lead. Luxembourg Leaks a Case Study in Collaborative Journalism
Complex files, specialized subject areas - this project would always be a challenge. For success we needed local reporting on a global scale. Leaked files bring 80 reporters together for new ICIJ project
In partnership with journalists in 26 countries, ICIJ's latest project reveals secret corporate tax documents to the public for the first time. Churchill urged US to 'wipe out' Moscow with A-bomb
A new book reveals that Winston Churchill didn't want to stop at mere rhetoric in his campaign against communism. 'Let documents be your guide' to investigative writing
From FBI files to the intimacy of family letters, Thomas Maier reveals how he investigates history to find new stories. Rich countries chastised for lack of anti-bribery efforts
Corruption is as strong as ever within many of the world’s wealthiest nations, who regularly fail to stop bribery, according to a new report. Technology, tradition, and a golden age of muckraking
Are we living in a Golden Age of investigative journalism? The answer depends on who you ask, and where they've come from. Nonprofit begins $1m battle against secrecy with shot at US
Convicted criminals and arms traffickers are among the shady characters using US-based shell companies for dirty business. 'Illegal state aid' and offshore 'sinners' in Euro tax probes
It has been a bruising week for smaller nations with contentious tax regimes as authorities turn up the heat against tax abuse. OECD's tax crackdown calls for global profit reporting
Could a new data-sharing template be one of the most revolutionary tax tools to emerge from debate over global tax rules? Journalists hit back with anti-spying legal challenge
A journalism organization is alleging that the UK government's surveillance program is in breach of international law. People power: Lone wolves turn to citizen masses for data help
The old guard of lone wolf investigative reporters have found a new and increasingly necessary ally in their battle to wrangle big data. Anti-shell corporation bill gets support from unlikely US state
For years, two US senators have sponsored a bill to eliminate anonymous shell corporations to no avail. This year they have some unusual support. Bird's eye view: How satellite imagery is making the news
Three very different stories show how satellite images, until recently confined to the weather report, are now the stuff of front-page news. 'Don't aim at fame; just be a good, compassionate person'
ICIJ member Dai Qing went from accidental reporter to one of China's most prominent investigative journalists by virtue of courage and a belief in press freedom. Tracking cross-border weapons trade with YouTube
How ICIJ's network and a video posted online helped uncover evidence of German-made guns in places they should never have been available. America revealed as top spot for China's 'naked officials'
Say you are a corrupt Chinese official and you want to flee to safety. Where do you go? Turns out the U.S. is a popular choice. Dinner and a deal highlights African human rights issues
It wasn't just African leaders who had controversial records at a White House dinner last week, but also some of the corporations dining with them. How to investigate Russia's shady business world online
Russia can be a difficult place to operate, made tougher by increasing sanctions. But how open is its corporate data?Investigations on-the-go with mobile-friendly website
Help us improve our new, mobile-friendly site, which will make it easier to access investigations on your phone or tablet. Practical tips for building a data journalism mindset
If you don’t have the data, ask for it; if there are no rows and columns, create them. 'I'm not a spy:' Reporters reveal surveillance fears
U.S. government surveillance is scaring sources and making journalists feel like criminals and spies, a new report says. What does $13m lobbying in US buy for African nations?
When African leaders arrive for the U.S.-Africa Summit, some may be eager to see results from the millions they've spent. OECD’s plan to end bank secrecy blasted by activists
More than €37 billion in hidden assets have been revealed in transparency drives, but a new plan for global openness has been greeted with skepticism. My bloody brush with America’s secret foreign policy
Charles Lewis found out in the most horrific way that America’s self-image as the reluctant global warrior couldn’t be more wrong. ICIJ to build Global I-Hub, a new secure collaboration tool
Collaborative journalism will get a boost from a new secure hub for reporters, which ICIJ will build with a Knight Foundation grant. Simple tools to sort the tweets from the trash
Part one of three: Twitter streams can rapidly turn into floods - here's how to keep your timeline relevant and under control so you don't miss important updates. Simple tools to sort the tweets from the trash
Part one of three: Twitter streams can rapidly turn into floods - here's how to keep your timeline relevant and under control so you don't miss important updates. New app shines light on foreign influencers database
Kuwait has spent hundreds of thousands of dollars lobbying on behalf of Guantanamo detainees – it’s a story that would have been tough to find if not for a new version of a long-standing database. How users have spent the past year digging through offshore data
Twelve months ago ICIJ chose to publish the contents of its Offshore Leaks database to the world. Here's what users have been looking at so far... Lobby groups ‘see right through’ US state’s financial transparency attempt
One might think that if Delaware began to lift the veil of secrecy about thousands of shell corporations, there would be praise from groups that have clamored for this very move. Think again. Mining companies 'worst offenders' for misinvoicing, secrecy: reports
Up to $424 billion tax revenue is lost each year through misleading import and export invoices, as secrecy hinders accountability, according to two new reports. 'Try and find Narnia in the wardrobe': inside the work of a research specialist
ICIJ member and veteran internet researcher shares his experience and some practical tips for using the world wide web to investigate and dig a whole lot deeper. 'Try and find Narnia in the wardrobe': inside the work of a research specialist
ICIJ member and veteran internet researcher shares his experience and some practical tips for using the world wide web to investigate and dig a whole lot deeper. House passes Freedom Act, but no protection for foreign sources
The Freedom Act doesn't change the fact that Constitutional protections that are taken for granted by many U.S. journalists – and their sources – stop at the border. Digital, data experts to enhance ICIJ's cross-border reporting
As part of our commitment to collaborative big data projects, ICIJ has hired full-time programmers and a digital expert to further strengthen our credentials. China, Russia beat US in new corporate transparency report
The ability to access corporate information is paramount for journalists and investigators. So how open is your country? Your country, your vote – a rough guide to global voter restrictions
Interactive map: In light of a US judge banning one state from requiring photo IDs for voters, what are some other restrictions placed on voters around the world? Tribute paid to journalism's silent heroes with award win
US seizes $458m in corrupt funds - but what now?
There was much fanfare around the massive seizure of a former dictator's corrupt assets in the US. But the hard part is figuring out what to do with the money now. The “human touch”: the key to digging up court records
At an IRE conference in San Antonio in June, Leo Sisti explained how he negotiates access to judicial records to break stories for his Italian newsmagazine, L’Espresso. Here is an edited version of his talk. How to unearth public records: a global guide
In much of the world, Freedom of Information laws exist on paper but are often ignored in practice. Here are some tips on how to break through and get the public records you need.
Investigating charities: How to search the finances of nonprofits and foundations
A new website allows journalists and other investigators to dig into the finances of tax-exempt charities. How to locate a person held in the U.S. prison or immigration detention systems
Whether it's to track down a notable criminal, learn the whereabouts of detained immigrants, or explore the workings of the justice system, locating detainees is a crucial investigative skill. Here's how it's done. New website to assist crime and corruption investigations
The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project has launched a new research desk that will assist reporters worldwide with crime and corruption investigations.
'I'm still waiting for my first car chase'
Stefaans Brummer's reporting helped put South Africa's national police chief in jail for corruption. He tells reporters to embrace the numbers and the nitty-gritty details and not to hold their breaths for high speed car chases.
Mastering disaster: How to get the facts to cover humanitarian crises
In the aftermath of disasters like Typhoon Haiyan, its often difficult to get basic facts on casualties, damage and humanitarian relief. Our guide offers reliable sources for answering these critical questions. ‘The biggest criminals write laws that make their crimes legal’
Giannina Segnini, the director of the investigative team at La Nacion newspaper in Costa Rica, describes her approach to the investigation that put two former Costa Rican presidents behind bars. 'Everyone can be an investigative journalist. Everyone!'
Inga Springe describes the challenges of creating the first investigative journalism center in the Baltics, as well as her groundbreaking investigations into organized crime and economic inequality.
How we did Offshore Leaks China
A multinational team of journalists spent months combing through secret tax haven records revealing offshore holdings of China’s rich and powerful. 'Capture the popular imagination'
Sheila Coronel describes how she uncovered a trail of money, mistresses and mansions that helped bring down a former president of the Philippines, and shares her vision for fostering investigative journalism among her students. ‘I have never felt disadvantaged being a woman reporter’
Ritu Sarin describes her investigations of secret payments, hidden bank accounts and bugs planted in the Prime Minister's office - and explains why her gender never held her back as she rose to become a top editor in India. Beginner’s guide to improving online security
Amid growing revelations of hacking and internet surveillance, improving online security is necessary for journalists and others who work with sensitive information. Here are our tips for how to get started. Getting the most out of Offshore Leaks data
The Offshore Leaks database is good for more than just searches. ICIJ's Mar Cabra shares techniques and tricks that journalists and other researchers can use to get maximum results for investigations.
How to build a complex, controversial interactive graphic - in six different languages
It may appear simple, but there were layers of complexity and months of work behind a graphic illustrating China's connections to the offshore world. Investigating the Bangladeshi garment industry without a hidden camera
A year ago a factory collapse in Bangladesh killed more than 1000 garment industry workers. How do you accurately report on the situation now, without going undercover? How to build a complex, controversial interactive graphic - in six different languages
It may appear simple, but there were layers of complexity and months of work behind a graphic illustrating China's connections to the offshore world. No net, no say for online mining survey with surprising results
A new World Bank survey has surprised experts by showing strong public support for the extractive industries in resource-rich nations, but its methodology has come under question. Sri Lanka delays herbicide ban as kidney disease origin remains elusive
Facing political opposition and questions about scientific evidence, Sri Lanka has placed on hold its ban on top-selling Monsanto herbicide. Corruption warning looms for public natural resource funds
Sovereign funds set up to help stabilize national economies going through resource booms could instead fall into the hands of corrupt officials, according to a new report. Happy birthday Offshore Leaks - what we've learned, and what the future holds
A year after the first articles were published, we look back on what's been achieved, and forward to what is still to come. Offshore Leaks honored with top investigative reporting prize
IRE judges applaud the global tax haven investigation for its wide reach and significant impact, awarding ICIJ's team a top prize and a finalists' mention. Tax haven parody plunders a secretive offshore world
Update - "Asset protection" attorney interviewed in The Daily Show's tax haven parody says the segment's comedian John Hodgman expressed interest in opening a trust for himself. Reinvention is key at the new frontiers of journalism
There is one common, constant challenge facing journalists and journalism today, and a dedication to training is the key to overcoming it. ICIJ expands global network with 10 new members
From new media innovators to investigative reporting veterans, the latest members' new skills will help journalists dig deeper and push harder to hold the powerful accountable. UN expert expects pushback over air pollution death report
An alarming new report from a UN agency has again warned about the dangers of burning carbon-based fuels; but this time, it's not coming from the environmentalists. Resource-rich developed nations told 'practice what you preach'
The US has now signed on to a worldwide anti-corruption initiative for the mining and oil sector, but other wealthy nations with higher stakes are resisting. Stars start to align for bill to outlaw shell corporations
An NGO's $1 million TED prize win, new backers in Congress, and global action against corporate secrecy have boosted one senator's hopes for his bill against shell corporations. Dual award wins recognize two ICIJ projects
March has been a month of international recognition for ICIJ’s global team of investigative journalists. Sri Lanka bans leading Monsanto herbicide citing deadly disease fears
Sri Lanka orders ban on glyphosate, an active ingredient in Roundup, citing kidney disease outbreak; Monsanto said the evidence is unproven. Kleptocrats hiding funds in US warned 'we will find you'
Meet the US Justice Department team that has so far uncovered more than $1.1 billion in allegedly stolen funds being channeled through America. Getting the most out of Offshore Leaks data
The Offshore Leaks database is good for more than just searches. ICIJ's Mar Cabra shares techniques and tricks that journalists and other researchers can use to get maximum results for investigations.
Beginner’s guide to improving online security
Amid growing revelations of hacking and internet surveillance, improving online security is necessary for journalists and others who work with sensitive information. Here are our tips for how to get started.
Exposing Slovenia’s dark history in the Yugoslav conflict
The Slovenian public has been kept in the dark about their leaders' misdeeds during the Yugoslav conflict, which included war profiteering and a pact with Slobodan Milosevic.
ICIJ denounces brutal attack on Ming Pao editor
Police arrest nine men in connection to a brutal knife attack on Kevin Lau, the former chief editor of Hong Kong newspaper and Offshore Leaks publishing partner Ming Pao.
‘I have never felt disadvantaged being a woman reporter’
Ritu Sarin describes her investigations of secret payments, hidden bank accounts and bugs planted in the Prime Minister's office - and explains why her gender never held her back as she rose to become a top editor in India.
Can the OECD’s tax evasion plan trickle down to the developing world?
The OECD's tax evasion plan earned cheers from financial transparency advocates. But can it work to curb tax evasion in poor countries that suffer its most painful consequences?
CDC launches industry-funded study of mystery kidney ailment
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control is organizing three industry-backed studies of a deadly kidney disease that is afflicting agricultural workers in Central America.
BVI considers tough prison sentences for data leaks
A bill introduced last week in the BVI legislature would impose prison sentences of up to 20 years for individuals who leak secret data and up to 15 years for journalists who knowingly publish illegal leaks.
UN panel: corporate tax avoidance is Africa's biggest financial drain
A UN panel led by former South African President Thabo Mbeki estimated that each year Africa loses twice as much money from illicit financial flows as it receives from foreign aid.
World's "least corrupt" nations fail to police bribery abroad
Several countries that earned squeaky-clean marks for lack of corruption from the European Commission and the influential NGO Transparency International have poor records of policing corporate bribery overseas.
'Capture the popular imagination'
Sheila Coronel describes how she uncovered a trail of money, mistresses and mansions that helped bring down a former president of the Philippines, and shares her vision for fostering investigative journalism among her students. Wealthy nations preserve bribery loophole
A handful of wealthy nations are resisting a global trend toward abolishing "facilitation payments," small fees that are paid to public officials for performing basic administrative tasks.
The highlights of "Chinaleaks"
The China Leaks investigation uncovered the hidden offshore holdings of the relatives of China's leaders, generating a wave of global media coverage and triggering a massive censorship effort by Chinese authorities.
“Chinaleaks” stories censored in mainland China
Authorities block online access to ICIJ's exposé of Chinese elite's offshore holdings. Who's Who in China Leaks
Among thousands of Chinese users of tax havens are relatives of the country’s top leaders and some of China’s wealthiest men and women. Find out their links to power and to the offshore economy. Relatives of China’s top leaders own secretive offshore companies
China's elite linked to secret offshore entities
ICIJ has today published the latest part of the largest investigative reporting project in its 15-year history – revealing that close relatives of China’s top leaders have held secretive entities in offshore tax havens usually associated with hidden wealth. ICIJ to reveal China’s offshore secrets
We've faced many challenges in preparing the major report that we will be releasing soon: an investigation that pulls back the curtain on China’s links to the offshore world. How we did Offshore Leaks China
A multinational team of journalists spent months combing through secret tax haven records revealing offshore holdings of China’s rich and powerful. Growing appetite for change in food aid program
A spending agreement working its way through the U.S. Congress includes a small but notable step toward reforming America's subsidy-heavy food aid program.
Tracking the Guantanamo diaspora
In twelve years of operation, more than 600 detainees have been released from Guantanamo. Here's what we know about what they are doing now.
In U.S., efforts to fight offshore secrecy hit snags
The U.S. has made few commitments toward requiring American companies to disclose their real owners, and the most substantial rule that it proposed has now been stalled for years.
Remembering Alfredo Quijano
ICIJ's Alfredo Quijano, who chronicled crime and corruption on the US-Mexico border, died of a stroke last weekend. He is remembered by his colleague Alfredo Corchado.
The billion dollar mining experiment
Europe's biggest nickel mining company, Talvivaara, coaxed billions of euros from investors with rosy promises about an unproven mining technique. Then the new method failed to work as planned.
Unlocking the secrets of the Cook Islands
The author of ICIJ and the New York Times' joint investigation of the Cook Islands describes the hidden world of the Cooks' offshore economy, a "lawsuit-proof" paradise where the wealthy stash their assets.
Americans abroad denounce offshore tax law’s unintended consequences
Americans abroad say that the U.S. tax law FATCA, intended to crack down on offshore tax avoidance, has snared middle and working class expatriates with byzantine and unfair requirements.
'Everyone can be an investigative journalist. Everyone!'
Inga Springe describes the challenges of creating the first investigative journalism center in the Baltics, as well as her groundbreaking investigations into organized crime and economic inequality.
Secret U.S. drone bases in Germany revealed
An investigation by ICIJ's members in Germany reveals that the U.S. secretly staged drone warfare from bases in Germany, with the help of German intelligence services.
The mystery of the fleeing Americans
Skyrocketing numbers of Americans have been renouncing US citizenship in recent years. Help us figure out who they are and why they are cutting ties with Uncle Sam.
‘The biggest criminals write laws that make their crimes legal’
Giannina Segnini, the director of the investigative team at La Nacion newspaper in Costa Rica, describes her approach to the investigation that put two former Costa Rican presidents behind bars.
Tax havens face crisis in wake of Offshore Leaks, report says
A leading offshore services company finds that ICIJ's Offshore Leaks investigation has caused serious damage to the industry. The solution? More public relations and lobbying.
Mastering disaster: How to get the facts to cover humanitarian crises
In the aftermath of disasters like Typhoon Haiyan, its often difficult to get basic facts on casualties, damage and humanitarian relief. Our guide offers reliable sources for answering these critical questions.
Lobbyists for the havens: ICIJ’s guide to the offshore system’s defenders
As the world cracks down on offshore tax havens, little-known business groups that represent many of the world's most powerful corporations are trying to put the brakes on reforms.
Introducing ICIJ's first Investigative Journalism Fellow
A conversation with Will Fitzgibbon, the first Investigative Journalism Fellow selected for a new joint program run by ICIJ and The Global Mail of Australia.
50 years after JFK’s assassination: a brief guide to reliable sources
As the 50th anniversary of John F. Kennedy's assassination approaches, our guide for researchers, reporters and concerned citizens offers a list of reliable sources for examining one of history's most shocking crimes.
'I'm still waiting for my first car chase'
Stefaans Brummer's reporting helped put South Africa's national police chief in jail for corruption. He tells reporters to embrace the numbers and the nitty-gritty details and not to hold their breaths for high speed car chases.
Danish bank exposed for advising clients to stash money offshore
A documentary by the Danish Broadcasting Corporation used hidden camera footage to reveal a leading bank advising clients to hide money in offshore tax havens.
Report names most toxic places on the planet
A new report identified ten of the world's most polluted sites, and found that the greatest hazards to human health are increasingly coming from small-scale production rather than multinational companies.
Prime Minister pledges to end secrecy on ownership of UK companies
UK Prime Minister David Cameron pledges to make public a central registry that reveals the true owners of British companies, marking a significant step to crack down on offshore financial secrecy.
HSBC exposed in massive data leak in Belgium
Secret documents obtained by ICIJ's Lars Bove revealed that banking giant HSBC helped its clients escape millions of euros in taxes by hiding money in offshore havens.
Learn how to use the ICIJ Offshore Leaks Database
A new video tutorial explains everything you need to know about how to use ICIJ's Offshore Leaks Database. Follow these steps to search more than 100,000 secret entities by country, keyword or by accessing the raw data directly. Initiatives seek to protect anonymity of leakers
As governments crack down on leaks, new projects in the United States and Italy seek to restore the practice of secure and anonymous information drops.
New website to assist crime and corruption investigations
The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project has launched a new research desk that will assist reporters worldwide with crime and corruption investigations.
ICIJ award winners announced
Reporters at the Wall Street Journal and Uppdrag granskning Swedish Television won the 2013 ICIJ awards for cross-border investigative reporting.
Money, research target mystery kidney disease in Americas
In a reversal of its position two years ago, the Pan American Health Organization formally recognized a mysterious form of kidney disease as a major public health threat and pledged $1.7 million to combat it.
Users can now search by country in the ICIJ Offshore Leaks Database
ICIJ has added a country search feature to the Offshore Leaks Database, allowing more precise geographical searches of more than 100,000 offshore companies listed in the database. 'The drug trade is the biggest threat we have ever had'
The director of the Chilean investigative news organization CIPER describes her approach to telling stories that make a difference, and outlines the obstacles confronting investigative journalists in Latin America.
How to locate a person held in the U.S. prison or immigration detention systems
Whether it's to track down a notable criminal, learn the whereabouts of detained immigrants, or explore the workings of the justice system, locating detainees is a crucial investigative skill. Here's how it's done.
ICIJ awarded honorary doctorate by University of Liège
ICIJ has been awarded an honorary degree by the University of Liege, a prestigious recognition that cited ICIJ's work on the Offshore Leaks project. The lessons of Masters of Sex: How to turn reporting into a TV series
Masters of Sex, a biography of pioneering sex researchers by ICIJ's Thomas Maier, recently premiered as a popular television drama. Maier shares his tips on converting in-depth reporting to the screen.
Investigating charities: How to search the finances of nonprofits and foundations
A new website allows journalists and other investigators to dig into the finances of tax-exempt charities. The first in our weekly "From the research desk" column. Why I quit my job as an investigations editor in Egypt
Award-winning investigative journalist Hisham Allam explains why he quit his job as an investigative editor amid the crackdown on press freedom in Egypt. Countries target pesticides as suspected link to rare kidney disease
Governments from El Salvador to Sri Lanka explore the role of pesticides in a malady killing laborers, as other scientists eye heat stress. Why I quit my job as an investigations editor in Egypt
Award-winning investigative journalist Hisham Allam explains why he quit his job as an investigative editor amid the crackdown on press freedom in Egypt. How to unearth public records: a global guide
In much of the world, Freedom of Information laws exist on paper but are often ignored in practice. Here are some tips on how to break through and get the public records you need.
Powerful cross-border stories on crime, corruption and public health are Daniel Pearl Awards finalists
ICIJ has selected six groundbreaking reports as finalists for the 2013 Daniel Pearl Awards, which honor excellence in cross-border investigative reporting. ICIJ adds 15 new members to its global investigations network
ICIJ is adding 15 accomplished investigative reporters to its roster, expanding its membership to 175 journalists working in every region of the world.
From West Africa to Tibet, new locales enter the offshore secrecy market
As much of the world cracks down on tax havens, some countries are loosening their tax and transparency laws in hopes of becoming the next offshore destinations. ICIJ runs down the list. World Bank approves loan to Nicaraguan sugar plantation amid concerns about health risks to field workers
As concerns about a deadly epidemic affecting agricultural workers have grown among Central American governments, the World Bank has approved a new loan to an industry whose workers are among the hardest hit by the disease.
As world focuses on Manning and Miranda cases, developing nations are jailing journalists in record numbers
ICIJ announces new Research Editor
Margot Williams will take on the role of setting up and operating a research desk and data library that will be a go-to resource for ICIJ reporters and our institutional members worldwide. Become ICIJ's first Investigative Journalism Fellow
Australian journalists can apply now to spend 10 months with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists in 2014, honing your cross-border investigative reporting skills. Help ICIJ lift the veil on offshore secrecy
Putting together a project with the depth and breadth of Offshore Leaks is a huge logistical challenge. Now we need to finish telling this story. The “human touch”: the key to digging up court records
At an IRE conference in San Antonio in June, Leo Sisti explained how he negotiates access to judicial records to break stories for his Italian newsmagazine, L’Espresso. Here is an edited version of his talk. Australian businessman makes major investment in international investigative journalism
$1.5m grant empowers ICIJ to expand global investigative reporting
The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists has been granted the largest investment by an individual in its 15-year history. Council of the European Union requests ICIJ offshore data
The Council of the European Union has formally requested ICIJ to release to each EU member state any information from its leaked cache of offshore financial data that may involve citizens of those countries. Governments agree to share tax records
Move by G8 leaders, in part, follows ICIJ's massive Offshore Leaks investigation. ICIJ “Offshore Leaks” Database Receives 2 Million Page Views in First 24 Hours
ICIJ Releases 'Offshore Leaks' Database To Public
ICIJ database cracks open secret world
Our web app allows the public to search more than 100,000 secret companies, trusts and funds created in offshore locales such as the British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Cook Islands and Singapore. Offshore Leaks Database FAQs
Why is ICIJ releasing company data, including the names of so many people? Why didn’t ICIJ publish all of the data? Major announcement on offshore tax havens investigation forthcoming
How we built the Offshore Leaks Database
How La Nación Costa Rica developed ICIJ’s application to visualize offshore companies. Disclosure of South Korean offshore secrecy raises demand for tax investigation
The release of South Korean names in offshore records obtained by ICIJ has prompted the country’s ruling and opposition parties to urge tax authorities to undertake a thorough investigation into South Koreans’ activities in tax havens. Work for us: ICIJ is hiring investigative reporters
Want to work with the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists team in Washington, D.C.? We're hiring two internationally-literate investigative reporters — one of them a senior journalist, and one with at least three years of experience. Notes From a Long-Distance Investigation
Lessons from the learning curve involved in big journalistic collaborations and data projects like ICIJ's Offshore Leaks. Authorities announce tax haven investigation
Tax authorities in the U.S., Britain, and Australia announced they are working with a gigantic cache of leaked data that may be the beginnings of one of the largest tax investigations in history. Data Harvest Conference: What You Missed
Some 150 investigative and data journalists and programmers from all across Europe took part in a great harvest of ideas and digital research methods. ¿Cómo sobrevivimos a la colaboración periodística más grande de la Historia?
de las preguntas más recurrentes que recibimos estos días es la siguiente: ¿Cómo habéis logrado que 86 periodistas de todo el mundo trabajaran juntos? ICIJ, Center win 3 Sigma Delta Chi Awards
The ICIJ won 1st Place honors in the Society of Professional Journalists' Sigma Delta Chi Awards for the "Skin and Bone" investigation into the global trade in human body parts. Learn Data Journalism in Brussels
Learn how ICIJ's journalists dealt with huge packs of data in our offshore leaks investigation at the Data Harvest Conference in May. Onshore and Offshore Realms Equally Secretive in Greece
For one Offshore Leaks reporter the data was daunting, but reporting at home was even more challenging. How we all survived likely the largest collaboration in journalism history
One of the most frequent questions people ask us these days is “How in the world did you get 86 journalists to work together?” How ICIJ chose our offshore reporting partners
At ICIJ we collaborate on “deep dive” stories that cross borders, then release our findings to media partners without cost. Here's how we choose which reporters to work with, and the organizations to publish the finished work. Release of offshore records draws worldwide response
China slips in a global corruption ranking following revelations that the country's wealthy elite use offshore tax havens.
Why we are not turning over the offshore files to government agencies
One of the many reactions from our series on offshore tax havens has been government agencies from Germany, Greece, South Korea, Canada and the U.S. asking for access to the 2.5 million files that form the basis of our reporting. Offshore Exposé: Bigger Than Wikileaks’ ‘Cablegate’
It’s certainly one of the the biggest single leaks of documents in the history of investigative reporting. And it names names. Highlights of Offshore Leaks so far
Close relatives of China’s top leaders, including President Xi Jinping and former Premier Wen Jiabao, are revealed to have held secretive offshore accounts in tax havens. Likely largest journalism collaboration in history
The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists has just launched the next part of our multi-year project aimed at stripping away the biggest mystery associated with tax havens: the owners of anonymous companies. ICIJ Lifts Veil on Offshore World
Penetrating A World Built On Secrecy
Investigative reporting is expensive, time-consuming, and risky. We should know -- we're revealing a world that’s dominated by the rich and powerful. How To Verify Information and Debunk Myths Using Online Tools
You're right on deadline and need to verify that claim flying around on social networks. Henk van Ess explains how the internet can help you to debunk the internet -- in real time. How To Fact-Check Social Media
You're right on deadline and need to verify that claim flying around on social networks. Henk van Ess explains how the internet can help you to debunk the internet -- in real time. 'Connect with everyone, even the devil'
Swedish investigative reporter Fredrik Laurin knows that power corrupts, but also that resistance in the form of journalism can have effect. 'If money is your object, journalism is the wrong industry'
Swedish investigative reporter Fredrik Laurin knows that power corrupts, but also that resistance in the form of journalism can have effect. In this Q&A he shares how his team identifies good investigative stories, and the value of constant networking. How to Publish an E-Book: the Ultimate Guide
Your definitive guide to formatting, uploading and publishing your long-form journalism as an e-book to the various digital marketplaces. How to Publish an E-Book: Part Three
In this final part of our definitive guide to publishing your long-form journalism yourself as an e-book, learn how to deal with pesky issues such as DRM and tax. How to Publish an E-Book: Part Two
So your work of long-form journalism is nicely formatted for the various e-book platforms. Take the next step: uploading. How to Publish an E-Book: Part One

Lessons From a Fledgling Investigative Reporting Center
The first nonprofit investigative reporting center has just been set up in Italy. Long-time ICIJ member Leo Sisti explains how it all came about and what lessons might be there for reporters in other countries. Facebook Graph Search: Boon for Reporters but at What Cost To Privacy?
VVOJ's Henk van Ess previews Facebook's powerful new Graph Search (still in beta). What could be a boon for investigative reporting also raises major privacy issues. Why Investigative Reporting Is On Life Support
Nonprofit muckraking organizations are mushrooming, but most of these have budgets less than $50,000 and five or fewer people on staff. How We Did It: Cracking the Codes
Fred Schulte, Joe Eaton, David Donald and Gordon Witkin of the Center for Public Integrity have won 2012’s Philip Meyer Award, recognizing journalism done using social science research methods. Here the Center's data editor, ICIJ's David Donald, explains the computer-assisted analysis behind the story. Is Public Indifference the Biggest Threat to Investigative Reporting?
Strong words in defence of dedicated journalists, and unbeatable tips for investigative reporters young and old, from ICIJ's award-winning Thomas Maier. 'Never Forget You Have Only One Boss: the Truth'
Find subjects where you can break new ground. Record key interviews on video or audio. And remember that a lot of your own faults can be overcome by sheer reporting effort. Stellar tips for investigative reporting from award-winning author and journalist Thomas Maier. Time for Public Officials to Disclose Their Tax Payments?
ICIJ member Sheila Coronel explores whether an argument can be made for mandating that the highest officials disclose the taxes they pay. How To Cultivate a 'Data State of Mind'
Mar Cabra is one of ICIJ's data journalism gurus and is at the forefront of investigative journalism and journalism education in Spain. Here she discusses data journalism: its role in investigative reporting and the essential tools and skills for this field. 'Don't Be Boring, Just Because You Have To Get the Facts Right'
The Guardian's investigations editor lists the essential skills to get a journalism job, discusses the mindset required, and shares the most important lesson he's learned over the years. 'Be Prepared To Be Disliked'
The Guardian's investigations editor lists the essential skills to get a journalism job, and the most important lesson he's learned over the years. FDA Posts Warning on Tainted Human Body Parts
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration threatens recall after bacteria and contaminants were found in human tissue products made by a top supplier to hospitals in the U.S. and around the world. Global Power To Shift to Asia by 2030, U.S. Says
Asian countries will soon surpass the United States in many global power metrics, the U.S. intelligence community confirms in a new report. UK Govt Promises Offshore Investigation After ICIJ Exposé
ICIJ's revelations about offshore finance secrecy prompt the British government to investigate any abuses revealed involving sham nominee directors. Offshore World Allows Some to Play Outside the Rules
The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists today launches the first part of a multi-year project aimed at stripping away the biggest mystery associated with tax havens: the owners of anonymous companies. Investigative Journalism: Why the Crisis?
Investigative journalism is not glamorous. It's hard work and mostly boring. But that's not why it's in crisis. Medical Journal Warns on Human Tissue Trade
The Lancet warns about the dangers of “profiteering” in the $1 billion international trade on human tissue and the lack of sufficient regulation worldwide – echoing the findings of ICIJ's investigation. Top new ICIJ investigative books
Whatever the state of the news media, long-form investigative journalism is finding a home in published books. Here are some of the best recent reads, all by ICIJ journalists. Investigative Journalism in the Age of Media Meltdown
Societies become susceptible to organized manipulation when commercial media organizations cut resources for journalism, argues ICIJ's sole New Zealand member. Reporting from Danger Zones
Snubbed at a cocktail party versus jail or death: US journalists have it easy compared to many of their colleagues around the globe. 'Be sure this way of life is something you are keen on, because it will eat up your time'
The riches contained in this questionnaire with multi-award-winning investigative journalist Michael Bilton rival the wealth of his decades-long output at the London Sunday Times and as a documentary film-maker.
Read on to learn details about his research methodology, and why a significant investment of time is the most critical component of each investigative report. How To Fight Fraud in Europe
Can investigative journalism be instrumental in the detection of and fight against corruption and fraud with EU funds, and if so, how? ‘Until you know the right questions to ask, you can never get to the truth’
Why a significant investment of time is the most critical component of each investigative report. Get Started in CAR with these Excel Tutorials
Dipping your toe into Computer-Assisted Reporting? We know most newsrooms don't offer training in this area, so we have put together some video tutorials demonstrating relatively simple Excel functions to help you wrangle spreadsheet data and find meaning in your numbers. How To Track Looted Wealth
The ICIJ’s Sheila Coronel shares how to investigate illicit money trails ahead of her Tracking Corruption Internationally presentation at the 2012 IRE conference. Revealing the Secret World of Private Companies
You’d think that getting the names of the shareholders of a company would be fairly easy. Such information should be routinely available. Not if you’re talking about private companies, which have managed to elude public scrutiny even in an era of increasing transparency. An Investigative Reporting Manifesto
How To Use Simple Excel Functions for Data Analysis
In this series of video tutorials, ICIJ reporter Kate Willson demonstrates four basic yet essential Excel functions to assist with data analysis during investigative reporting. Why You Should Turn Your Investigative Report into an eBook
The digital media guru explains how eBooks make investigative journalism easier to access and read on mobile devices, and how they could provide a valuable revenue stream. Be careful of the “master narrative”
Maud Beelman, founding director of ICIJ and now deputy managing editor for investigations and enterprise at The Dallas Morning News, has a strategic four-part checklist which helps her prioritize which stories to go after. She shares them here, as well as the most important lessons learned over the years, and how to make the most of the limited time and resources you are given. ‘Don’t get lured into journalistic group think’
Maud Beelman shares how investigative reporters can make the most of limited time and resources using a four-part checklist to help prioritize which stories to go after. Can Journalists Really Investigate Dictatorships?
Civil Trial Postponed in U.S. Human Tissue Harvesting Scandal
A New York judge has postponed a civil trial that would have delved into how a major player in the global trade in human tissue obtains skin, bones and other body parts that are recycled into medical devices.
'There are no bad sources, only incompetent reporters'
Never go up against defenseless people. Never lie to your sources. Use the "two-step" approach when questioning. Investigative reporting techniques and journalism's moral code according to Portugal's "troublemaker" Rui Araujo. Convention Offers Fresh Hope For Jack Mackerel
Jack mackerel, decimated by years of free-for-all overfishing in the southern Pacific, now stands a strong chance of recovery with new legally binding measures to protect it. The Jungle Highway
Reporters for a new cross-border journalism group, Connectas, traveled 700 kilometers along the new highway cutting through the Amazon to document its impact. Here’s an excerpt of the series from ICIJ member and Connectas founder Carlos Eduardo Huertas. 'There Are No Bad Sources, Only Incompetent Reporters'
There is no democracy without efficient institutions and too many journalists passively accept this, says Portuguese investigative journalist and "troublemaker" Rui Araujo. How Investigative Journalism Produces Results
There were several important developments in recent days linked to our exposure of the international trade in human tissues. Here's how investigative reporters can work together to produce better journalism and effect change. Muckrakers and Newshounds: A Treasury of Books about Great Investigative Reporters
Whenever I get discouraged about the business I work in, I turn to my favorite books about journalists who struggled to overcome these obstacles and expose all manner of bullies, charlatans, grafters and kleptocrats. Here are some of my favorites. The Essential Elements of Powerful Global Investigative Reporting
What makes a good investigation? How should an investigative reporter select stories? Here are the three criteria we apply to every investigation. ICIJ Welcomes Four New Members
They are four independent investigative journalists in three continents, all women, doing the painstaking, unglamorous and often dangerous work of following the paper trails, finding the patterns and asking the questions others ignore. Help Us Uncover the World’s Illicit Tax Networks
Offshore tax havens enable arms dealing, child pornography, insider trading, embezzlement, political bribery and money laundering. Help ICIJ shine a light on these illicit global networks. Caterpillar Inc., U.S. Government Debt and Offshore Tax Havens
Caterpillar Inc.’s top executive vows to campaign on U.S. government debt. But he doesn't mention claims that the company may have contributed to the federal debt by using offshore tax havens to dodge U.S. taxes. PublicI's new name has a familiar ring to it
The story behind the digital rebranding of ICIJ's parent organization, the Center for Public Integrity. Credibility Rules When Investigating via Social Media
In this extract from the new book The Social Media (R)evolution: Asian Perspectives on New Media, ICIJ's Syed Nazakat outlines best practices for investigative reporters using social media. Social Media and Investigative Journalism
In this extract from the new book The Social Media (R)evolution: Asian Perspectives on New Media, ICIJ member Syed Nazakat outlines different ways investigative reporters are harnessing social media around the globe. Be inventive and patient
Bulgarian investigative journalist and author Alexenia Dimitrova reveals how she uses Freedom of Information laws in several countries to uncover hidden secrets of the Cold War, how the imprisonment of her father spurred her on, and the rewards of patience. The Question Investigative Reporters Fail to Ask
How Morton Mintz produced three decades’ worth of Page One stories for the Washington Post the hard way -- by mining documents and testimonies. Advice to Reporters: 'Be Inventive and Patient'
Bulgarian investigative journalist Alexenia Dimitrova reveals how she uses Freedom of Information laws in several countries to uncover secrets.
Skin & Bone probe wins August Sidney Award
The Sidney Hillman Foundation has announced that a 13-journalist team led by the ICIJ has won the August Sidney Award for "Skin and Bone," a sweeping investigation of the global trade in human tissues.
Can recycling humans always be justified?
Why I'm Still a Tissue Donor
When ICIJ began discussing how to write a story about the untraceable and opaque trade in human tissues, our intent was not to propel readers to toss out their donor cards. WHO Moves to Track Human Tissue
The World Health Organization plans to create a coding system to track human tissue used in medical products. Japan has almost no regulations on human tissue
There are no limits on doctors importing from abroad medical materials made from human tissue for treatment of patients. There are also no laws in Japan for controlling use of human tissue, such as skin and bones. Analyzing the Data behind Skin and Bone
How we identified relationships between data on tissue imports, inspections, adverse events, and accident reports filed with the Food and Drug Administration. Investigative Reporting: Expensive, Risky, and Under Threat
Why do our investigative reports take so long to compile? Quite simply, very few organizations do this kind of deep, labor-intensive, and expensive journalism any longer. How We Collaborated to Produce Skin and Bone
When working in cross-border investigative reporting teams, what's even more important than the work itself? Recycling Corpses is Big Business
The U.S. is the world's biggest trader of products from human tissue. ICIJ’s eight-month, 11-country investigation probes how the industry sources the corpses it requires for its merchandise. Business of Recycling Dead Humans Rouses Concerns
WASHINGTON, DC, July 17, 2012 – The business of recycling dead humans has grown so large you can buy stock in publicly traded companies that rely on corpses for their raw materials, a new investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists has found.
How to Write a History of Something Secret
Tips for writing about espionage and military intelligence, from the authors of the explosive new book which asserts Israel killed five Iranian nuclear scientists. Secrets of Investigating a CIA Rendition in Italy
ICIJ member Leo Sisti shared how he finds sources and information in Italy as part of the Covering Justice in Europe and the US panel at the 2012 IRE conference. Fishing Quotas Expected After ICIJ Exposé
The UN estimates that 85 percent of the world's fish stocks are beyond sustainable levels. We looked into why nobody was taking action; here's how we did it. How to Attract an Online Audience For Your Investigation
Jessica Plautz of the Investigative News Network offered advice on how to stand out from the internet crowd on the Promoting Your Investigation panel at the 2012 IRE Conference. Secrets of a Happy Nonprofit/For-Profit Investigative Collaboration
Terri Langford shares the tips she presented on the Nonprofit/For-Profit Collaborations: Navigating the Terrain panel at the 2012 IRE conference. We’re Pioneering a Masters of Investigative Journalism in Spain
There is no watchdog culture in Spanish newsrooms, nor even a Freedom of Information Act. Now a group of journalists will train a new generation to investigate corruption. How To Track Looted Wealth
The ICIJ’s Sheila Coronel shares how to investigate illicit money trails ahead of her Tracking Corruption Internationally presentation at the 2012 IRE conference. UN, World Bank Release New ‘Grand Corruption’ Database
Creating an investigative reporting best-seller
ICIJ's Blaz Zgaga investigated a massive arms selling scandal in Slovenia and turned the story into a best selling book trilogy.
Who are ICIJ’s Members?
A look at the data on ICIJ's 158 member journalists: which part of world they work in, where they work, and the gender ratio of our membership.
How We Found Oscar's Story
ICIJ member Ana Arana talks about the reporting process behind the six-month investigation about a Guatemalan tragedy published by ProPublica, Fundacion MEPI and This American Life.
It pays to look beyond so-called ‘experts’ in the field
New York-based Jenny Nordberg discusses how she applies knowledge of human behavior to her interviews, the thrill of finding disturbing things just under the surface, the pretentiousness of the term ‘investigative journalist’, and how global networks like the ICIJ help expose "juicy" stories. It Pays To Look Beyond So-Called ‘Experts’ in the Field

Experts can be bought by powerful interests, which is why New York-based Jenny Nordberg has learned to look past their opinions when reporting.
India’s Military Officials Profit from Land Scam
'Know who you’re working for and why you’re working'
Colombian ICIJ member Carlos Eduardo Huertas talks about the traits of a good investigative journalist, his experience with Wikileaks and why tackling the big, important themes – and sticking to them – matters. ‘Tener claro para quién se trabaja y por qué se trabaja’
‘Know Who You’re Working For and Why You’re Working’

Carlos Eduardo Huertas, investigations editor at Colombia’s Semana magazine, talks about the traits of a good investigative journalist, and why it is essential to stick on a story.
What do you consider some of the most important lessons you have learned over the years?
‘Hay Que Tener Claro Para Quién Se Trabaja y Por Qué Se Trabaja’
Reber Joins CIR as Senior Editor
ICIJ member Susanne Reber has been named senior coordinating editor for multiplatform projects and investigations at the Center for Investigative Reporting. Reber left NPR last week where she had been deputy managing editor for investigations.
Criminal Justice, Italian-Style
‘No story is worth dying for but some stories are worth taking a bit of risk’
ICIJ member Syed Nazakat of The Week talks about the risks and benefits of conflict reporting in "the most dangerous place on earth".
An Exceptionally Brave Journalist
When you report on crime and corruption in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Republics, you can expect to get your fair share of grief or threats. But this hasn’t stopped Khadija Ismayilova in Azerbaijan.
Great investigative reporters don’t take no for an answer
The first thing to keep in mind about investigative journalism is that it’s not glamorous. (We can blame television with its “undercover” reporters and “hidden cameras” for this mistaken image.) It’s actually hard and often boring work. How To Be a Great Investigative Journalist
Learn To Build News Apps
Tips for investigating the mining industry
Investigative journalists Sarah Shipley Hiles and Marina Walker Guevara wrote one of the earliest exposés of mining giant Renco Group’s deceptive practices in the town of La Oroya, Peru, in 2005. Tax Havens: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Interviews With Two ICIJ Greats
Why I care about a bony fish with oddly shaped fins
‘Open up as much dialogue with reporters in other countries as possible’
Paul Radu of the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project walks his talk when it comes to sharing information and know-how. Here the Investigative Dashboard creator shares how he tracks down the money across borders. Finding the victims of surveillance
5 tips for investigating the mining industry
How to Background a Person Using Lexis
ICIJ reporter Kate Willson demonstrates how to background a person using public records on Nexis. Find state or local court records, criminal history, voter registration, property owned, divorce proceedings, neighbors, and more.
‘Be annoying, and don’t give up’
Bill Birnbauer, Senior Lecturer in Journalism at Monash University in Australia, shares the methodology and techniques which have served him best as an investigative journalist.
What are the most important tools of the trade that you, as an instructor, pass on?
The most important tool for investigative reporters is their attitude. They should:
How To Search Federal Court Records Using PACER
A video introduction to the Public Access to Court Electronic Records system (PACER).
‘A reporter’s trustworthiness and reputation for integrity is their greatest asset’
Sam Smyth of the Irish Independent and Sunday Tribune newspapers talks about the greatest threat to investigative reporting, and how he gets his stories.
1. Tell us about the defamation case you were involved in recently
I scooped Julian Assange, now I’m on his enemy list
A St Patrick’s Day prank on Irish investigative journalism
Ireland’s most powerful politician and one of its wealthiest oligarchs were ringing the New York Stock Exchange bell on Ireland Day, the Monday after St Patrick’s Day.
Guide to international Freedom of Information laws
Back to the future at #nicar12
Going to the IRE-NICAR conference is like traveling to the future for me. Not only because I advance my skills in computer-assisted reporting, but also because I always learn things that I would have never dreamed even existed.
Against All Spanish Odds
‘Spain is different’ has been the tourism slogan for the Southwestern European country for years, since dictator Francisco Franco’s regime used it in the 60’s. I’d argue Spain is different for something else too: its lack of transparency.

Mar Cabra presenting at NICAR 2012. Photo: Ben Welsh
Free-for-All in Southern Pacific Decimates Fish Stocks
WASHINGTON, DC, January 25, 2012 – Asian, European and Latin American fleets have devastated fish stocks in the southern Pacific, once among the world’s richest waters, a new investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists has found.
International Consortium Adds 41 Investigative Journalists
The Center's International Consortium of Investigative Journalists has added 41 new members to its roster, expanding the network’s reach to 158 news professionals working on an array of media platforms in 61 countries. ICIJ is a global network of reporters who collaborate on in-depth, cross-border stories and is a project of the Center for Public Integrity.
International Consortium Adds 41 Investigative Journalists
The Center's International Consortium of Investigative Journalists has added 41 new members to its roster, expanding the network’s reach to 158 news professionals working on an array of media platforms in 61 countries. ICIJ is a global network of reporters who collaborate on in-depth, cross-border stories and is a project of the Center for Public Integrity.
Nearly $8 billion in subsidies float Spain’s ravenous fishing fleet
WASHINGTON, D.C., October 2, 2011 —The Spanish fishing industry has received more than $7.8 billion (€5.8 billion) in subsidies since 2000 to expand its capacity and global reach. That public fortune supports a fleet with an extensive record of flouting rules – and breaking the law – according to a new investigation by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists.
ICIJ unveils Daniel Pearl Awards finalists
International Consortium Adds 15 Investigative Journalists
The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists has added 15 new reporters to its roster of more than 100 journalists in 50 countries. ICIJ is the international arm of the Center for Public Integrity, one of the country’s oldest and largest investigative news organizations.
July 18, 2011
A previous version of Interpol's Red Notices used by some to pursue political dissenters, opponents erroneously listed North Korea as an Interpol member. North Korea is not a member of Interpol.
Ryle to lead international investigative consortium
The Center for Public Integrity, one of the country’s oldest and largest nonprofit investigative news organizations, has named Gerard Ryle, director of the Center's International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ).
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Is human tissue always better? Germany's leading experts say "No."