The field of investigative reporting involves bringing to the fore
facts and figure that affect human interests and fair governance. This
means conducting in depth research, looking at public records, doing
extensive interviews, as well as checking and rechecking of facts
before publication. Whether print or television, investigative
reporting is essentially “watchdog” reporting. This means reporting
crimes, unfair practices, injustice, as well as other human interest
aspects like environment, disease, and so on.
Investigative journalism can move public opinion and instill fear in
those treading the wrong path. Slave trade, gun running, terrorist
activities, drug trafficking, money laundering and so on are brought to
the notice of the world by investigative journalism.
An investigative journalist must be unafraid, determined, patient,
watchful, fair, as well as dog minded to be successful. The questions a
journalist seeks answers to are: who is responsible for the wrong
doing; what methods were employed; what are the consequences; what can
be done to correct the wrong; can the wrongdoers be brought to book?
The keys are to dig up the first lead, tip, or hunch. Then sniff around
for facts. Form an investigative hypothesis. Next, like a detective,
gather evidence that will prove undeniably the hypothesis. This will
involve interviews, documents, records, proofs, and intense paper work.
Organize the information and write the report. Check facts, check
chances of libel, and the laws. To be good at your work it is
advantageous if you are familiar with the law, know the procedures, can
conduct quick and accurate research, follow the money trail, and dig
out facts.
Investigative journalism is a specialized field that uses journalism
skills, curiosity, advanced research methods, and a determination to
right wrongs. This field of journalism is what helps shape democracy
and protects the lives of the innocent. Done correctly it can raise
public opinion to such an extent that the way the world thinks and
functions can be changed.
An investigative journalist must work within the confines of ethics
written and unwritten and the laws. The work could include revealing
scandals and tracing infringements of laws, rules, or morals. Bring to
public notice the policies of governments, companies, and other
organizations. And, institute social change by describing social,
economic, political, and cultural trends.
To be effective in investigative journalism the journalist must have
high standards of functioning and be above corruption. The principles
of truthfulness, accuracy, objectivity, impartiality, fair play, and
public accountability must be deeply ingrained in the mind and soul of
the journalist. Since investigative journalism involves use of
undercover sources and anonymous tips it is absolutely essential for
the journalist to double check facts.
Investigative journalism is news with a difference. It is critical and
in depth investigations to a happening or policy which will serve to
prevent or correct a wrong, prevent crimes, save the planet from
destruction, and shape the future of the world in more ways than one.
It is reporting the unknown, the hidden, and so, the investigative
journalist becomes the keeper or custodian of public conscience.
It is a field where a mere niggling thought or suspicion becomes an
expose of wrong doings. It questions actions and decisions and brings
to the limelight outrageous acts and in human actions. In simple terms
an investigative journalist polices society in the larger interests of
mankind.
