The International Journalists’ Network helps Iranian journalists connect, find training opportunities

(Washington, D.C.) – The International Center for Journalists took its first steps to support Iranian media with the launch of a Persian channel on its International Journalists’ Network (www.ijnet.org), the online Web site for media professionals seeking networking and training.

Iranian journalists are increasingly turning to the Internet for crucial information. IJNet Persian will help support independent journalism by linking Iranian journalists with colleagues--and professional training opportunities--around the world.

“IJNet Persian is a new way to reach journalists in Iran,” says ICFJ President Joyce Barnathan. “Iranian journalists will now be able to access our extensive libraries of media laws, codes of ethics, training materials, and fellowship opportunities.”

Since its launch in 1998, IJNet has become the premier resource for journalists and media organizations in the developing world. With Persian, IJNet now publishes in five languages, including Arabic, English, Portuguese and Spanish. Its team of international reporters publishes dozens of articles each week on media training and holds regular discussions on hot topics. IJNet receives more than 40,000 visitors each month.

The Eurasia Foundation, a privately-managed, non-profit organization, sponsors IJNet Persian. To visit the site, go to www.IJNet.org/Persian. For more information, contact persian@icfj.org.

The International Center for Journalists, a non-profit, professional organization, promotes quality journalism worldwide in the belief that independent, vigorous media are crucial in improving the human condition.

In the past 22 years, ICFJ has worked directly with more than 20,000 journalists from more than 176 countries. Aiming to raise the standards of journalism everywhere, particularly in areas with little or no tradition of a free press, ICFJ offers hands-on training workshops, seminars, fellowships and international exchanges to reporters and media managers around the globe. For further information, visit www.icfj.org.