Explore Report
We’re pleased to publish key insights from our 8th Journalist Impact Survey. The report shares findings and observations on the effectiveness and long-term impact of our legal and financial help, as well as the threats and trends affecting the journalists we support around the world.
“The support I received from Media Defence has encouraged me to do better journalism instead of retreating to other professions or avoiding investigative reporting altogether.”
– Nigerian Journalist supported by Media Defence in 2024.
The Survey
Our Journalist Impact Survey provides an important opportunity to seek feedback from journalists that we have supported during the year. From evaluating the quality of assistance to understanding the success of cases supported, the feedback of the journalists and media outlets is crucial to our work. The survey also allows us to test our theory of change: access to legal defence enables journalists to continue reporting and holding governments and authorities to account.
The findings from the survey will guide our efforts to enhance our support systems and ensuring the continued ability of journalists to report freely.
Background
In 2025, we received 24 responses from journalists whose cases – ending in 2024 – we have supported. The journalists come from all of the regions in which we work, and we are pleased with the representation of our geographic reach, which has increased as our team has grown. We are also pleased with the strong feedback about our communications and quality of our legal support.
Key findings on threats facing journalists:
80% of respondents believed that they would face some form of legal action in the future as a result of their journalistic activity.
58% of respondents cited reporting on corruption as the public issue most likely to result in legal action.
Journalists who took part also reported facing legal threats for reporting on crime and justice, national security, indigenous and minority rights, environment and energy & women’s rights.
Key findings about our support:
71% of respondents reported feeling satisfied or extremely satisfied with the outcome of their case;
100% of respondents would recommend our support to other journalists facing legal action; and
71% of respondents believe that their case had a positive wider impact, either in their country or their region.
The survey found that our support and that of our partners was incredibly effective.
92% of respondents have continued to practice journalism since the conclusion of their case.
If you face legal threats because of your journalism, we can help.
