Media Connect is a dynamic initiative designed to empower young media practitioners and journalism students across nine countries in the Southern Neighbourhood: Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Palestine*, Syria, and Tunisia.

With a strong focus on constructive journalism and solutions-oriented reporting, Media Connect provides participants with the tools, skills, and networks necessary to thrive in their careers while actively contributing to a vibrant and independent media landscape in the region.

More specifically, the network’s objectives are:

• To inspire media professionals by engaging in impactful activities in collaboration with the EU Neighbours South programme, EU Delegations in the region, and EU-funded programmes and projects. Media Connect highlights the achievements, stories, and visions of young journalists and media practitioners involved in EU initiatives.

• To enhance professional growth opportunities by promoting EU-funded training, workshops, and resources tailored for young media practitioners. These activities focus on personal development, ethical storytelling, and creating meaningful connections within the media industry.

• To increase the visibility of the EU’s support for independent media, especially among young media professionals in rural or underserved communities. Media Connect ensures that aspiring journalists from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds have access to resources and opportunities to help shape the future of media in the Southern Neighbourhood.

• To create a collaborative network of passionate young journalists, media professionals, and influencers working with EU Neighbours South, EU Delegations, and EU-funded programmes and projects. This network aims to amplify the impact of EU initiatives, particularly in the areas of constructive journalism, storytelling, and solutions-driven reporting.

Key Facts:

• Media Connect is active in Algeria, Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Libya, Morocco, Palestine*, Syria, and Tunisia.
• Participation in Media Connect is voluntary and driven by a shared commitment to fostering a thriving media landscape.
• Members of Media Connect include young journalism students and media practitioners from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds, participating in activities that are non-political, non-profit, and non-partisan.

By empowering the next generation of journalists and media professionals, Media Connect fosters a culture of integrity, innovation, and inclusivity in the media sector across the Southern Neighbourhood.