A few weeks before this year’s Global Investigative Journalism Conference, we’ve highlighted key discussions, talks, and workshops from the schedule and added them to our itinerary.
Tipsheets from the iMEdDIJF25 – Part Ι: Tools and methods for investigative journalism
This is the first of a two-part series highlighting key insights and takeaways from the workshops at the iMEdD International Journalism Forum 2025.
The Global Investigative Journalism Conference (GIJC) has long been a key event on the calendar for investigative reporters, and the 2025 edition looks set to continue that tradition — providing a platform for knowledge exchange and global solidarity in the face of growing challenges to press freedom.
GIJC25 is set to take place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from November 21-24, 2025, bringing together journalists from around the world to share tools, ideas, and inspiration for investigative reporting.
This year’s program features a wide range of sessions, covering topics such as data journalism and investigative techniques, corruption and financial crime, climate investigations, press freedom and journalist safety, and the role of AI in investigative work.
Attendees can expect a mix of hands-on training workshops, regional meetups, and discussions on global investigative trends. As always, the event will bring together experienced journalists, editors, and trainers from around the world.
A few highlights include:
- Skill-building workshops on digital forensics, secure communication, and source protection.
- Panels exploring investigations into authoritarian regimes and global illicit finance.
- Sessions tailored for both early-career reporters and veteran investigative journalists.
- Networking events and regional gatherings designed to foster international collaboration.
Ahead of the conference, we took a look at the full schedule —available here— and picked out some of the sessions we can’t wait to attend, day by day.
Friday, November 21
Opening Keynote: Maria Ressa
Maria Ressa, Nobel Peace Prize-winning journalist and co-founder of Rappler, is a leading advocate for press freedom. With nearly 40 years of journalism experience, she has faced political persecution under the Duterte government.
No-Code Data Scraping Tool Kit
This hands-on workshop will guide journalists through essential no-code scraping techniques for extracting structured data from PDFs, static websites, and complex datasets using simple plugins or free tools. Speakers: Aika Rey, Kira Schacht
Tracing Illegal Mining Activities
In this session, you will learn how newsrooms use satellite imagery, environmental data, and on-the-ground reporting to uncover and document the impacts of illegal mining. Speakers: Doğu Eroğlu, Karla Mendes, Linda Mujuru
Investigating the Water Crisis Through a Local Lens
Journalists from the Middle East, South America, and the Gulf will share methods for exposing the global water crisis, tackling access challenges, and holding power to account. Speakers: Edgardo Litvinoff, Eman Mounir, Lina Ejeilat | Moderator: Andres Bermudez Lievano
Saturday, November 22
Investigating in Exile: Strategies to Develop Sources and Fight Censorship
This panel will explore practical strategies for building secure source networks, implementing digital and physical security protocols, and circumventing censorship from abroad. Speakers: David Dembélé, Mohammad Bassiki, Yucca Wai | Moderator: Penelope Winterhager
Following the Money: Tools, Tips, and Techniques
In this practical panel, investigative journalists from three continents will share open source resources, leaks databases, and investigative pathways that can help follow the money far beyond the identify of hidden owners. Speakers: Emmanuel K. Dogbevi, Jelter Meers, Miranda Patrucic | Moderator: Francisca Skoknic
Editorial Systems for Impact
This panel will share strategies for tracking story outcomes, building impact-driven cultures, and measuring societal value to ensure journalism sustainability and credibility. Speakers: Anya Schiffrin, Daisy Okoti, Tais Seibt | Moderator: Miriam Wells
Investigating War Crimes in Different Contexts and Regions
Journalists from three continents will share methods for safely gathering evidence of war crimes, from securing sources to countering denial efforts. Speakers: Hadi al Khatib, Su Chay, Yevheniia Motorevska | Moderator: Henrik Grunnet
Investigating Biometric Technology and the Identity Business
In this panel, veteran journalists will dig into new technologies such as iris scans and fingerprint systems and share practical techniques and sources for investigating biometric supply chains, large personal information databases, and the deals behind these procurements. Speakers: Beatriz Ramalho da Silva, Khadija Sharife, Ravi Nair | Moderator: Hala Nouhad Nasreddine
Sunday, November 23
Tech Risk Mitigation: Preparing for Device Search and Seizure
Through real-life case studies and hands-on scenarios, this session will cover preventative measures, response protocols, and what happens to seized devices. Speakers: Bill Marczak, Raya Sharbain
Investigating Online Gambling
Journalists will share tools, tips, and techniques for uncovering betting networks, hidden finances, and associated harms. Speakers: Giulio Rubino, Kira Zalan, Lydia Namubiru, Saska Cvetkovska | Moderator: Kristina Amerhauser
Editorial Leadership Best Practices for Cross-Border Collaborations
Veteran editors will share insights on leading successful cross-border investigations, covering team building, project management, and editorial strategies for powerful collective storytelling. Speakers: Arnaud Ouédraogo, Brigitte Alfter, Gerard Ryle, María Teresa Ronderos | Moderator: Justus von Daniels
Uncovering Stories Connected to Religious Groups
Reporters will share strategies for investigating religious organizations, including building trust with victims, overcoming legal harassment, and navigating resistance to reveal sensitive abuses and compelling stories. Speakers: Anusha Bradley, Juan Barrientos, Paola Ugaz | Moderator: Anton Harber
Building an AI Assistant for Investigative Journalists
In this workshop, you will learn to build custom AI research assistants for newsgathering and investigations using no-code tools. Speakers: Reinaldo Chaves, Rune Ytreberg
Monday, November 24
Global Shining Light Awards Winners
Global Shining Light Award (GSLA) winners will share how they uncovered abuses under threat and in challenging conditions, revealing the stories behind their award-winning investigations. Moderator: Oleg Khomenok
A pre-conference day will be held on November 20, featuring workshops and specialized classes for those requiring advanced training or facing challenging conditions. These sessions are by invitation only, offering a focused and intimate learning experience.
As part of the pre-conference program, 20 international iMEdD and GIJC fellows will take part in an exclusive, one-day training organized by GIJN and the iMEdD Ideas Zone. This cohort includes five journalists from Greece, selected through an open call earlier this year, as part of iMEdD’s ongoing collaboration with GIJN.
