The program, implemented with the support of the “Reporters Without Borders” organization, successfully enhanced the professional skills of Artsakh journalists. According to journalists, the program helped them become more competitive in the labor market, establish connections with the journalistic field in Armenia, and improve their professional abilities.

This initiative, aimed at developing the professional skills of Artsakh media representatives, was conducted from November 2023 to March 2024. During the first phase of the project, participants underwent three days of training on topics such as freedom of information, personal data protection, fact-checking, analyzing open data, and examining sources.

In the second phase, Artsakh journalists who participated in the project produced multimedia articles addressing issues related to Artsakh. These articles were published on FOICA’s official website and social media pages, as well as re-published in other Armenian media outlets.

As part of the program, journalists participated in surveys to evaluate the program and its impact on their professional development. All participants expressed satisfaction with the program, noting that it enhanced their professional skills.

Out of 20 journalists, 14 participated in the survey assessing the course’s impact on their professional practice. All respondents believed the program provided them with skills and knowledge that allowed them to stand out in the media field, strengthen relationships with fellow journalists, and gain a better understanding of Armenia’s media landscape. Of the participants, 92.86% felt that it made them more competitive in the job market, and 85.72% reported using the acquired knowledge in their work.

Additionally, 71.43% of respondents stated that after completing the program, they changed their practices in terms of using open sources, gathering information more efficiently, creating multimedia content, and conducting analyses. Artsakh journalists also noted that the program had a positive impact on their integration within Armenia, with 85.72% agreeing that it facilitated contact with Armenian media and journalists. For 64.29% of participants, the program represented an excellent job opportunity.

Project Details
Course on “Analysis of Open Data and Use of Open Sources”
Course on “Personal Data Protection and Freedom of Information”
Fact-Checking Course
Multimedia materials prepared within the framework of the project