This project aims to upgrade the skills of 90 local journalists from regional media houses in the provinces of southern Iraq (Basra, Maysan and Thee Qar), in the field of investigative journalism. This will raise the proficiency and professionalism of local reporters in accordance with international modern standards of investigative reporting. The project also aims to create a network of investigative reporters based initially on the participation of the 90 journalists who will receive training.
 
Transparency International reports Iraq to be the fourth most corrupt state in the world. Corruption undermines development, depriving citizens of real opportunities to improve their lives and in turn the communities in which they live. In this regard, investigative journalism has the potential to expose corruption, enhance transparency and make officials accountable to the people. Revealing corruption will improve the performance of government institutions and make the government a catalyst for development. The number of media organizations in southern Iraq is around 200. The majority of these pursue conventional methods of reporting, but lack the capacity to professionally investigate the government’s actions. Governments must serve the people, and the only way to initiate this process is for government officials to be held accountable. Training in investigative journalism techniques will develop the skills of local journalists so that they can more acutely assume the role that is expected of them and demanded by the communities they serve.