Armenuhi Ghukasyan, in the center, and members of the newly established association of investigative journalists, discuss the next steps for preparing their upcoming report.

Translating US training experience into development of investigative reporting.

Inspired by the practices observed in the US, two months after the study tour, Ms. Ghukasyan established an association of investigative journalists in her native town of Sevan, in one of the most impoverished regions of Armenia - Gegharkunik. She has recruited six local investigative journalists, including Suren Barseghyan, who participated in an HICD training on media and elections held in France a few years ago.

“The study tour has helped me realize that creation of an association is an ultimate necessity,” says Armenuhi. “There are numerous problems surrounding Sevan, and among other things, an association of professional investigative journalists can help to raise awareness on the environmental issues of the area in a coordinated manner.” Ms. Ghukasyan also notes the multiple benefits of teamwork saying that it enables them to carry out a more in-depth investigation and prepare more comprehensive reports. The local association can also tap into the work that is already being successfully carried out by the Association of Investigative Journalists based in Yerevan.

Just a few days after setting up the association, Ms. Ghukasyan and the members of the newly established association initiated an inquiry into the environmental concerns raised around the prospective construction of a gold processing enterprise near the basin of Lake Sevan. Ms. Ghukasyan used her newly acquired skills to investigate the situation by gathering information from a variety of sources, including legislation, environmental reports and local NGOs. Although in the early stages of the investigation, the association has registered initial success. The rigorous investigation carried out by the team of journalists headed by Ms. Ghukasyan helped a coalition of local environmental NGOs to raise the issue on a national level by bringing it to the attention of the Armenian Government and the President. The investigation received wide coverage in local print and broadcast media.

Apart from the important role of informing the public, Ms. Ghukasyan tries to translate her experience into breaking down stereotypes regarding investigative journalists. “Often times, our role is misperceived: investigative journalists are taken as individuals who are keen to do harm rather than good. This cannot but undermine the overall importance of investigative reporting.” Armenuhi believes that through high-quality reporting and high-impact stories she will succeed in changing the perception around her work.

“I am thankful to USAID and AED for providing us with an opportunity to better acknowledge the significance of our role as investigative reporter,” says Ms. Ghukasyan, and hopes to make the most of out of her participation in the study tour and, in doing so, to better carry out her mission of unraveling the truth to the public.

Publication Date: 2009-06-15
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