The Global Media Defence Fund has announced a new call for partnerships to strengthen the legal protection of journalists and combat impunity for crimes committed against them.
The initiative seeks to empower organisations that defend press freedom and promote justice for media workers facing threats, harassment or violence.
Focus
This call supports projects that operate at the local, regional, or global level and contribute directly to the Fund’s mission of safeguarding free and independent journalism.
Proposals must address at least one of the Fund’s key goals: improving legal protection mechanisms, ensuring access to justice for journalists and reducing impunity for attacks on the press.
Benefits
A total of USD 800,000 has been earmarked for this round of funding. Individual grants will range between USD 15,000 and USD 50,000, depending on the applicant’s capacity, project scope, and proposed impact.
Selected partners will gain not only financial support but also visibility within a global network advancing media freedom and human rights.
Who can apply
This opportunity is open to not-for-profit organisations working in journalism, media defence or human rights.
Eligible applicants include:
- Non-governmental organisations (NGOs)
- Academic or research institutions
- Foundations and professional associations
- Intergovernmental or regional bodies
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be legally registered and active for at least two years.
- Demonstrate relevant experience in media defence or legal advocacy.
- Have sound financial management and internal control systems.
- Maintain a stable funding base and professional staff.
- Not appear on any United Nations sanctions or ineligibility lists.
Application Requirements
Applicants are required to submit legal registration documents, partner identification forms, and recent audited financial statements.
Each organisation may submit only one proposal.
Projects should clearly demonstrate how they will strengthen journalist safety, promote accountability, or improve access to justice for media professionals.
Evaluation process
Proposals will be reviewed based on their clarity, feasibility, impact potential, and financial responsibility.
Only organisations capable of transparent fund management and active participation in monitoring and evaluation will be considered. Funding decisions will prioritise initiatives that can deliver measurable, sustainable results.
Deadline
The deadline for this application is December 01, 2025. Visit the United Nations Global Marketplace website to apply.
Discover more global funding calls on our Opportunities page.
Summary not available at this time.
