Our Research

ICFJ's research arm explores the challenges and opportunities facing the news media today. Our goal is to help find solutions that advance independent and trustworthy public-interest journalism.

Our research sparks thoughtful debate on critical issues facing the profession , and provides evidence-based insights for newsroom leaders, technology companies, journalism donors and all those committed to strengthening free and vibrant news media around the world.

At ICFJ, we have the unique ability to survey our vast global network of journalists and newsrooms in multiple languages and to identify emerging trends, challenges and threats that affect the future of our field, and inform responses to them. 

Our ‘Participatory Action Research’ model means we focus on collaborative approaches to understanding issues and knowledge sharing with the aim of strengthening journalism and supporting journalists. Meanwhile, our partnerships with leading centers of journalism research in the U.S. and the UK strengthen and deepen our thought leadership capabilities.

ICFJ's research arm is led by Julie Posetti, PhD, whose work focuses on  journalism viability/sustainability, innovation and digital transformation, media freedom and the safety of journalists, media and gender, social media and disinformation. Her work draws on an international career spanning three decades as a journalist, journalism educator and researcher.