The 2024 EU Investigative Journalism Awards were presented on 22 October in Sarajevo at a ceremony organised by Thomson Media and hosted by Europe House. This prestigious regional award, supported by the European Union, celebrates the outstanding achievements of investigative journalists in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Winners are selected by an independent jury of experts, and awards were presented to the best investigative stories published in the previous calendar year in the Western Balkans and Turkiye.

Addressing the audience, the EU Ambassador to Bosnia and Herzegovina, Luigi Soreca, emphasised the EU’s commitment to supporting independent journalism and media freedom in the region. “Professional journalism, free from fear and intimidation, is one of the foundation stones of any democracy. Citizens have the right to know if public money is being misused or if companies, institutions or individuals are engaged in harmful activities. I would like to pay tribute to the bravery and dedication of investigative journalists across Bosnia and Herzegovina, particularly because journalists are often too frequently the targets of threats or attacks. Strengthening freedom of expression and of the media is one of the key priorities that Bosnia and Herzegovina must address to make progress on the path to the EU and we will continue to insist that there must be institutional protection of journalists and prompt follow up to any attack on a journalist”,  Ambassador Soreca said.

Sanja Lazić, a representative of Thomson Media, shared details about this year’s application process, noting that 53 submissions were received. These covered a diverse range of topics, including political corruption, human rights violations, women's rights, environmental issues, and more. “The quality of the stories we received this year demonstrates the vital role investigative journalism continues to play in our societies”, Lazic underlined.

The jury for this year’s award consisting of renowned media professionals Nidžara Ahmetašević, Ozren Kebo, and Dragana Dardic, Executive Director at NGO Helsinki Citizens' Assembly Banja Luka.

The third-place prize was shared by:

Azra Omerović and Zinaida Đelilović: International University in Goražde
Their investigation uncovered the awarding of a Doctor of Dentistry degree by the university despite having no enrolled students. This story, which had both domestic and international repercussions, led to arrests and the exposure of a fraudulent diploma scheme. “The journalists conducted a thorough investigation, documenting everything in detail. The story resonated with the public, highlighting the absurdities of Bosnia and Herzegovina's academic system and daily life,” said Dardić.

Azhar Kalamujić: Call the Bey for Car Park
A jury member introduced Azhar Kalamujić’s investigation, which also secured third place, noting that it was well-argued and extensively supported. Kalamujić exposed criminal activities and abuses involving public parking lots in Sarajevo, presenting his findings clearly and comprehensively.

Second place:

Dejan Rakita: TRGOVSKA GORA—Why and How It Was Chosen, What Is Being Built, and the Dangers It Poses
This investigation demonstrates Rakita's serious and detailed research. He presented perspectives from a range of stakeholders, including government representatives, fund directors (Fund for the Disposal of Radioactive Waste NEK), scientists, environmental activists, and journalists. The story also examined the ARTEMIS mission, responsible for monitoring nuclear waste management. “Rakita’s work addresses a critical environmental issue, offering a model for journalists covering environmental protection,” said Dardić.

First place (shared):

Arduana Pribinja: Accusations of Sexual Harassment by Female Patients at Zenica Hospital
In this groundbreaking report, Pribinja reveals disturbing testimonies from women undergoing medically assisted reproduction, who faced sexual harassment by a doctor. “This highly significant topic had received little public attention before this report. Pribinja handled it with professionalism, ensuring the protection of her sources while thoroughly exploring the broader context,” noted Dragana.

Nino Bilajac and Selma Učanbarlić: Inside eMagnetix's Million-Dollar Fraud and How the ‘Dream Job’ Became a Nightmare
A jury member praised this co-investigation for its depth and originality. The story, which examines eMagnetix’s fraudulent practices, incorporates a wide range of domestic and international sources, offering a comprehensive view of the issue. “It’s a rare example of well-researched investigative journalism that includes all the key elements while adopting an innovative approach,” the jury remarked.

The national-level competition winners will also have the opportunity to compete for regional recognition, rewarding the best investigative stories with regional impact, judged by a special jury. The regional competition winners will be announced in the last week of October in Ankara, Turkey.

About the EU Award for Investigative Journalism

The EU Award for Investigative Journalism is organized by Thomson Media, a media organization dedicated to media development and promoting press freedom worldwide. The project is funded by the European Union and implemented by a consortium comprising the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network – BIRN Hub, Central European University (CEU) – Hungary, the Association of Journalists (AJ) – Turkey, Thomson Media (TM) – Germany, Goce Delčev University Štip (UGD) – North Macedonia, the Independent Union of Journalists and Media Workers (SSNM) – North Macedonia, the Media Association of Southeast Europe (MASE) – Montenegro, and the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network of Kosovo (BIRN Kosovo).