Committed to transparency and accountability, the journalists’ association “Netzwerk Recherche” (NR) advocates for freedom of information and stronger investigative journalism.
Founded by journalists in 2001, Netzwerk Recherche promotes the teaching of investigative research methods in journalism education and professional training and supports projects that require sustained commitment. The association raises public awareness of the lack of thorough research and the gradual decline in reporting quality that results from it. More than 1,000 journalists are now members of the network.
A similarly large number attend its annual conference, which features more than 100 individual events. Netzwerk Recherche also organises several specialist conferences each year. In addition, it presents the Leuchtturm Prize for outstanding journalistic achievements, awards fellowships for exceptional investigative projects and advocates for nonprofit journalism.
With our support, Netzwerk Recherche was able to establish a professional office in 2008. It is responsible for key organisational tasks, supports the voluntary work of the executive board and plays a central role in planning the conferences. Through this institutional funding, we create added value for all journalists who make use of Netzwerk Recherche’s programmes and services. After all, networking, knowledge transfer and critical self-reflection form the basis for vision and innovation in the media sector.
| Funding period | 2008–2026 |
| Grant amount | insgesamt 605.500 Euro |
| Website | netzwerkrecherche.org |
Interview with Daniel Drepper
What distinguishes Netzwerk Recherche?
We have a clear focus: investigative research. We demand it, support it and celebrate it. This has created a growing community of people who, like us, see research as the core of journalism.
How has Netzwerk Recherche changed the way journalists conduct research today?
Before Netzwerk Recherche was founded, research was a marginal aspect of journalism. It was often conducted in isolation, dominated by men and associated with high barriers to entry. We have connected thousands of people, demonstrated that research is an accessible craft and worked to bring a wider range of perspectives and voices into investigative journalism.
What conditions are necessary for thorough research, and how has Netzwerk Recherche helped improve them?
Research requires three things: professional skills, time and courage. Through our conferences, we have created a space and a culture in which investigative methods are shared among peers. For many years, we have awarded fellowships that give journalists the time they need to pursue their research. Our clear stance also provides reporters with support and guidance, making it easier for them to withstand attacks and remain steadfast.
What will high-quality research require in the future? What role can Netzwerk Recherche play in this development?
In an environment shaped by AI slop, polarisation on social media and shrinking newsrooms, we need to refocus on traditional investigative research, on speaking with people and on publishing what others would prefer to keep out of the public eye. We support this work through initiatives such as our new fellowship for local investigative journalism. It provides funding for up to six months, professional training and access to a practical support desk. We believe that strong investigative reporting at local level can make a particularly important contribution to strengthening trust in journalism.
Journalists are increasingly becoming targets, particularly in the digital sphere. We see how intense the pressure has become and how important it is for newsrooms to take this new and systematic intimidation of press freedom seriously.
Daniel Drepper