Applications are now open for the IACC Young Journalists (YJ) Program 2026 in the Dominican Republic. Organized in partnership with Transparency International, this prestigious program will bring together 10 young journalists from around the world to attend the International Anti-Corruption Conference (IACC) 2026 from 1–4 December 2026.
Participants will gain firsthand exposure to global discussions on corruption, accountability, transparency, and governance while receiving mentorship from experienced professionals. This is an excellent opportunity for emerging journalists to strengthen their reporting skills, build international networks, and contribute to the fight against corruption.
Details About IACC Young Journalists Program 2026
- Host Country: Dominican Republic
- Location: Punta Cana
- Program Dates: 1–4 December 2026
- Arrival Date: 30 November 2026
- Departure Date: 5 December 2026
- Program Type: Journalism Fellowship Program
- Organizer: Transparency International
- Number of Participants: 10
- Funding Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Countries: Open Worldwide
- Application Deadline: 15 July 2026
What Makes This Opportunity Special?
The IACC Young Journalists Program is more than a sponsored conference attendance opportunity. Participants will:
- Attend the world's leading anti-corruption conference.
- Interview global leaders, activists, and policymakers.
- Gain mentorship from experienced professionals.
- Learn about the latest trends in anti-corruption reporting.
- Build international journalism networks.
- Develop stories with global relevance.
The program is designed for journalists who want to strengthen investigative and public-interest reporting while contributing to transparency and accountability worldwide.
Financial Benefits
Selected participants will receive:
- Round-trip Economy Airfare to Punta Cana
- 5 Nights Accommodation
- Daily Breakfast
- Daily Lunch
- Daily Dinner
- Conference Participation Access
- Mentorship and Training Opportunities
- Networking Opportunities
- Visa Processing Cost Reimbursement (approved in advance)
- Access to International Anti-Corruption Conference Sessions
Note: Alcoholic beverages and additional personal travel expenses are not covered.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be currently working as a journalist.
- Have experience reporting on social, political, or economic issues.
- Be under 35 years old on 6 December 2026.
- Be proficient in English.
- Be passionate about fighting corruption.
- Be committed to learning more about Transparency International.
- Be willing to participate fully in the program.
Eligible Journalism Backgrounds
Applications are welcome from:
- Digital Journalists
- Print Journalists
- Broadcast Journalists
- Multimedia Journalists
- Independent Journalists
Required Documents
Applicants should prepare:
- Updated CV/Resume
- Journalism Portfolio
- Published Articles or Media Samples
- Proof of Professional Journalism Experience
- Application Form
- Supporting Documents (if requested)
How to Apply for the IACC Young Journalists Program 2026?
Step 1: Review the Program Requirements
Carefully read all eligibility requirements and ensure you meet the age and professional criteria.
Step 2: Prepare Your Journalism Portfolio
Select your strongest reporting work, particularly stories related to:
- Governance
- Public Accountability
- Human Rights
- Economic Issues
- Social Justice
- Investigative Journalism
Step 3: Highlight Relevant Experience
Demonstrate:
- Reporting achievements
- Investigative work
- Community impact
- Interest in transparency and accountability
Step 4: Complete the Application Form
Provide accurate information and ensure all required documents are attached.
Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline
Applications must be submitted before 15 July 2026.
How to Increase Your Chances
Strong applicants usually:
- Show a genuine interest in anti-corruption reporting.
- Have a portfolio with impactful stories.
- Demonstrate commitment to public-interest journalism.
- Explain how the program aligns with their career goals.
- Highlight investigative or accountability-focused reporting experience.
What Reviewers Look For
- Reporting quality
- Storytelling skills
- Professional potential
- Commitment to ethical journalism
- Interest in transparency and governance issues
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting weak or outdated work samples.
- Providing incomplete application information.
- Missing the application deadline.
- Failing to explain interest in anti-corruption reporting.
- Using generic application responses.
Example of a Strong Applicant
A competitive applicant could be:
- A young investigative reporter covering governance issues.
- A multimedia journalist reporting on accountability and public services.
- A digital journalist highlighting corruption-related challenges in their community.
- A freelance journalist producing impactful public-interest stories.
Why You Should Apply
The IACC Young Journalists Program offers a rare opportunity to engage with global leaders, strengthen journalism skills, and contribute to the fight against corruption while attending one of the world's most influential governance conferences.
For aspiring journalists seeking international exposure and professional growth, this program can be a significant career milestone.
Final Advice
Prepare a strong portfolio, clearly demonstrate your passion for ethical journalism, and explain how the program aligns with your long-term career goals. The competition is expected to be strong, so focus on quality rather than quantity.
APPLY NOW
