What is Through the Lens?

Through the Lens is a biweekly Substack that brings you the best in journalism on conflict and crisis, human rights, and democracy every other Thursday.

At a time of collapsing public support in media, growing threats to press freedom, and difficulty reaching audiences with trustworthy and factual news, Through the Lens also looks to how journalists are finding new ways to cover these pressing topics better, in ways that resonate with audiences and drive them to action.

Why this project?

Through the Lens comes out of my time leading the IJNet Crisis Reporting Forum, in which I interviewed journalists around the world on how to better report on crises, conflict and elections. That work remains my passion today.

The project asks: how can journalists cover conflict in a way that doesn’t desensitize readers? What better ways can we report on democracy so audiences understand the stakes of their vote? And what new ways can we reach those who might not readily jump on the New York Times each morning, but still are looking for factual information on their world?

How can I get involved?

Start by subscribing! Whether you’re an active reporter, a student journalist looking to get your foot in the door of journalism, or are just interested in reading good journalism that drives you to action during a time when the news can feel overwhelming, I’m happy to have you.

I’m also actively looking for journalists who are doing journalism differently on conflict, rights and democracy. Does this sound like you? Get in touch!

Future plans

Going forward, Through the Lens is looking for ways to reach audiences beyond Substack, whether through podcasts, video, or social media.

Main photo by Nathan Dumlao on Unsplash.