The training strengthened journalists’ skills in civil journalism and environmental investigation and targeted journalists from the Eastern region of the European Neighbourhood (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine) as well as Russia. 22 journalists from different media (TV, radio, internet, print media etc) participated in the event, run by trainers from Ukraine and Georgia.
A variety of training sessions provided input on environmental investigation skills, such as searching and analyzing relevant and region-specific forest/ environment issues, and the dissemination of information through new media: blogs, social media. A special focus was put on creating video material, e.g. script writing, editing, and uploading and on blog writing skills and the promotion of blogs.
On a field trip the journalists visited legal and illegal logging areas and looked at the unique biodiversity of Georgian forests. The participants also met with representatives of the Forestry Agency and the Environmental Inspection.
During the training, the journalists prepared 5 video clips, 2 investigative articles and updated 2 blogs with forestry related posts. Soon the materials will be available on www.enpi-fleg.org. The journalists plan to continue cooperating through joint regional environmental articles and investigations.

For more information about the training please contact ENPI FLEG program media consultant Ekaterine Nakashidze at ekaterine.nakashidze@enpi-fleg.org.