Deadline: 7 March 2011
Start date: 06 Jun 2011
End date: 08 Jun 2011
Location: London
Language: English
Partners: Gerda Henkel Stiftung and Stanley Foundation
Thomson Reuters Foundation invites journalists to apply to take part in a major three-day seminar in London from June 6-8 2011. "Reporting on Terrorism and Global Security" will be held at the Thomson Reuters headquarters and will bring together security experts, authoritative commentators and journalists for a series of lively presentations and debates. The seminar will look critically at the role of the media and how journalists can avoid being exploited by terrorists to help them achieve their goals. Themes will include: fragile states; al Qaeda and its offshoots; the abuse of Islam to justify terrorism; the way forward in Afghanistan and Pakistan; cybersecurity and espionage; reporting in the age of social media and WikiLeaks; and anticipating security challenges of the future. Panels will be complemented by a practical workshop exercise and a newsmaker session.
Eligibility
Journalists from developed and developing countries, working in print, broadcasting or online, may apply irrespective of whether they are highly experienced or have reported for only a few years. They do not need to be specialists on terrorism. But the organisers are looking for those who have a proven interest and track record in reporting on security issues and conflict and who are willing not just to listen but also to put forward their own ideas and to enter debate. Applicants must be fluent in English as the event will not have translation facilities.
Funding
Applicants from developing countries may be eligible for funding support to cover their travel and attendance costs.
Submissions
* A biography of up to 250 words outlining your career.
* A paragraph or two on what you hope to gain from this seminar and what you think you can contribute to it. Include how much experience you have had in covering terrorism and security issues and the percentage of time you currently spend covering these themes.
* Comment on the following statement:"The journalist is the terrorist's best friend. Not only do the media grossly exaggerate the threat from terrorism, they also help terrorists achieve their goals by providing them with maximum publicity". (maximum number of words 500)
* Two recent examples of your published work, preferably relevant to the course for which you are applying, with a brief summary in English (if necessary). TV/Radio journalists can send in their scripts and a brief summary.