Nils Hanson: Consider how a corrupt person profits from the system
In the age of disinformation, investigative reporting gains even greater significance and value in modern journalism. In contemporary democracies, it is essential for fulfilling the media’s role as guardians of the public and protectors of human rights. When journalists uncover abuses of the authorities and the power of individuals, they contribute to responsible and accountable governance.
Nils Hanson has conducted around 500 journalistic investigations in his 30-year career as an investigative journalist and former editor-in-chief of the show “Mission Investigation” on Swedish public broadcaster. He was one of 20 leading investigative journalists who presented new topics and methods of investigation – from crime and corruption to climate change and the environment – at the Summer School of Investigative Reporting held in Riga, Latvia last month, attended by journalists from Macedonia.
Hanson says that there is always material for investigation, the challenge lies in recognizing it. According to him, there are many ways to spot a story worth investigating.
“If you don’t have ideas, think like this: How could I profit from the system if I were a corrupt person? If that opportunity exists (and it exists everywhere), someone will always be doing it. Think about the different possibilities. Then check them out!”, Hanson said.
He mentions that the most significant change has been the technical development from Excel to artificial intelligence, which has made it possible to investigate very complex topics and analyze thousands of documents.
“We can now tackle challenges that were unimaginable 30-40 years ago. Another important aspect is cross-border collaborations, which make investigative journalism even more powerful. We hope to see more investigative journalists focusing on the climate crisis in the future”, Hanson points out.
Source: Summer School of Investigating Reporting, Stockholm School of Economics – Riga
He has received numerous international awards for his investigative work. He advises seeking collaborators in other media outlets and allowing other editorial teams to publish your materials for free. They shouldn’t say “no” to a really good story. Reach out to politicians, activists, and others who could react. Make full use of social media, Hanson recommends.
“It’s important to follow established rules and standards, but as investigative journalists, sometimes you have to use controversial methods. However, to do this, you need public support. So, make sure your stories are accurate and fair. And don’t forget to inform the people involved in your investigation. You must respond to all accusations”, Hanson continues.
His handbook on investigative journalism has become a classic in Sweden. According to him, journalists should build fair and cooperative relationships with their sources who help in producing stories that are accurate, fair and impactful, which will earn them respect from the public. He says that it is often necessary to establish relationship with a promise of anonymity and that credibility is built by demonstrating transparency – keeping the source informed about the investigation’s progress, sharing the facts you plan to publish, and discussing how the information obtained by the source will be used.
Newsrooms need to understand that investigative journalism leads to exclusive stories that the public wants, needs and is willing to pay for. Many media outlets in different countries have realized this, Hanson concludes.
The content was produced by the Institute of Communication Studies.
Authors: Mirjana Mirchevska Jovanovikj, Sunchica Nikoloska, Pelagija Mladenovska