In global journalism, trust is fragile. Readers and viewers increasingly question “parachute reporting” – when outsiders arrive briefly, collect a story, and leave. What they value instead is depth, context, and authenticity.
That’s where local freelancers make the difference. They don’t just report what happens, they understand why it matters. They know which voices represent real community perspectives, which events are part of a deeper history, and which angles are often overlooked by foreign media.
Working with people already on the ground also makes reporting more resilient. Borders close, flights are delayed, and bureaucracy slows things down. But local journalists are already there – ready to cover events as they unfold.
And crucially, local knowledge often means safer access. A trusted freelancer can cross checkpoints, enter neighborhoods, or attend community gatherings where outsiders might face restrictions or suspicion. This ability not only protects crews and sources, it ensures stories are captured from places global media might otherwise miss.
At Sustainalists, we believe the future of international reporting depends on building trust across borders – together with those who know the story from the inside out.
