A person holding a machete with one hand and a ripe cocoa pod with the other hand in a lush green forest setting
Write for us!

Call for pitches: Climate, environmental justice and human rights in Southeast Asia

We are seeking talented journalists to craft compelling stories on Chinese trade and investment in Southeast Asia, with a focus on climate, environmental justice and human rights.

Topics of interest

• Environmental, social and economic impact of Chinese investments/trade in the region
• Case studies on infrastructure projects funded by China, including instances of engagement with project developers and/or legal cases
• Broader environmental justice issues in Southeast Asia, in particular Mekong countries
• Community responses and resilience to environmental challenges

Context

We are looking for journalists to help shine a light on these topics in a way that encourages healthy debate. Given the shrinking civil space on environmental and human rights issues across much of the region, we are looking for reporters who are skilled at writing about these subjects with nuance and sensitivity for a global audience. We are looking for original story ideas and are unlikely to publish a story that has been covered extensively elsewhere, unless it offers a clear new angle or development.

Requirements

Journalist profile: We prioritise commissioning local journalists with proven experience in environmental journalism. However, we will consider pitches from journalists based in the region with a good track record covering the above issues
Perspective: Stories should emphasise human rights and climate justice; while a China angle is welcome, this is optional
Region: Focus on countries within Southeast Asia – can be one country or multiple
Format: In-depth articles, features, investigative reports, or narrative storytelling.
Length: 1,000-1200 words per article
Pitch deadline: 31 July. Please note we will be assigning/commissioning stories ahead of this date; early submissions are strongly encouraged

Compensation

Rates are $325 USD per article

How to pitch

Submit your pitch to us by clicking through and reaching out to the relevant editor (Fidelis, Tyler or Soraya). Include a brief description of your story, your approach and any relevant background information.

We look forward to your submissions and are excited to work with you to highlight these critical issues!

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