With this theme we address the structural conditions that allow media organisations to keep operating in hostile environments.
What we do
Free Press Unlimited supports independent media operating in conflict and repressive environments by strengthening organisations in all its facets.
We work on:
- Dialogue and cohesion
We facilitate dialogue to plant professional observance instead of political discourse; to rebuild trust among media practitioners and civil society actors. By creating safe spaces for exchange and collaboration, we help bridge political, geographical and social divides. Over time, partners increasingly take ownership of these dialogues and continue them independently. - Diversity and inclusion
We support media organisations to embed diversity and inclusion in both editorial practice and internal governance. This work has evolved from developing gender policies to deeper organisational and cultural change, strengthening awareness of power relations, its influence and the importance of representation. - Organisational resilience
We strengthen media organisations to operate under pressure by supporting secure structures, internal learning, and long-term viability. This enables independent media to remain credible, relevant and trusted especially in and despite highly restrictive or polarised environments.
Our aim is to ensure that independent media organisations remain resilient, viable and able to provide access to reliable information, even under the most difficult conditions.
Media in exile
For many media organisations, exile is the only way to continue operating. While it offers relative safety, exile creates major challenges at organisational level. Financial sustainability is fragile, operational costs increase, and generating sources of income. We support media organisations forced to operate from exile, addressing challenges related to financial sustainability, relevance, and connection with audiences in their home countries.
Our support focuses on helping organisations integrate into the legal, fiscal, and bureaucratic systems of their new host countries. At the same time, we work to strengthen organisational continuity, foster collaboration, and support adaptive strategies for operating in contexts of displacement.
Radio Dabanga (Sudan), Founded in 2008, Radio Dabanga is an independent Sudanese news outlet that began reporting on the Darfur crisis. After being forced into exile by Sudan’s former regime, the organisation established its operations in Amsterdam with support from Free Press Unlimited. From exile, Dabanga continues to provide independent news to audiences across Sudan through shortwave radio, satellite television, and online platforms. It is the only Sudanese independent source of information that can still reach all people in Sudan. Even international experts, media and foreign affairs decision makers often turn to Dabanga for verified and up to date information.
Access to independent information as overarching principle
While each of the core programmes has its own focus, they are deeply interconnected and reinforce one another. Objectives on Media in Conflict cannot be achieved without wins in Safety of Journalists and Innovation & Information Integrity.
Underpinning all three themes is FPU’s overarching principle of access to independent information, the foundation upon which press freedom and democratic accountability rest. Together, these themes form the backbone of Free Press Unlimited’s strategy to protect press freedom, strengthen reliable information ecosystems, and build a more resilient global media landscape.
Networks and collaboration
We work closely with international and regional networks dedicated to the media in conflict areas. Through these networks, we coordinate rapid responses, share information and expertise, and strengthen collective protection mechanisms. Key networks include the Journalists in Distress Network, the Media Freedom Rapid Response consortium, the Legal Network for Journalists at Risk, and the Building Responses Together network. Our broader partnerships extend across all our thematic programmes.
