Investigative journalism must evolve into an organised global network to effectively combat corruption, which has transformed from a local issue into a sophisticated international system, experts said at the Bangladesh Journalism Conference 2026.
In a thematic session involving editors, investigative journalists, and media trainers, speakers discussed the future of investigative reporting, highlighting new strategies, inherent risks, and the shift towards technology-driven journalism.
The session was moderated by former BBC journalist Shakil Anwar, who led the discussion on the structure of investigative reporting and the vital importance of editorial independence.
Global corruption requires global investigation
Julian Sher, a Canadian investigative journalist and filmmaker, emphasised that corruption is no longer confined by national boundaries.
“Corruption is a global system,” Sher remarked, noting that as money and influence move internationally, journalists must similarly engage in cross-border collaborative investigations.
He warned that investigating corruption remains a high-risk endeavour as it challenges powerful interest groups. Drawing parallels between Bangladesh and Canada, Sher noted that large-scale corporate corruption and global projects involve complex financial and political layers across multiple countries.
Sher highlighted a “sad history” of corruption links between the two nations. While Canada typically ranks better than Bangladesh on Transparency International’s indices, he noted a recent downward trend in Canada’s standing.
He specifically cited the 2012 Padma Bridge corruption scandal, where serious allegations against a major Canadian firm led the World Bank to cancel its loan agreement and ban the company from various activities.
Sher referenced his investigative team “The Fifth Estate” and their 2013 probe into the Rana Plaza collapse. The investigation revealed the role of Canadian financing and companies in the disaster, raising questions regarding their involvement in labour exploitation.
The power of networks and timing
Shahed Mohammad Ali, editor of Dainik Samakal, argued that it is nearly impossible to investigate major corruption alone.
“Corruption is a network and a culture; therefore, journalists must also work through network-based cooperation,” he stated. He also stressed the importance of strategic timing and risk management, noting that publishing a major investigation at the wrong time can diminish its impact.
Badiuzzaman Babu, head of Capacity Building and International Justice Help Desk at the Media Resources Development Initiative (MRDI), underscored the necessity of institutional support.
He stated that journalists face immense pressure and risks when uncovering corruption, making training and institutional backing essential. He added that modern investigative journalism must be coordinated, data-reliant, and risk-aware to tackle the global framework of corruption.
Transition to data-driven reporting
Zaima Islam, Senior Reporter at The Daily Star, discussed the ongoing transformation in the field, noting that traditional source-reliant journalism is shifting towards data-driven investigations.
She shared her experience of uncovering state surveillance infrastructure and import networks by analysing procurement data, customs records, and HS codes. By analysing approximately 70,000 data entries, she was able to map a complete surveillance framework.
She revealed that various tracking and monitoring technologies are being imported under the guise of “Legal Interception Systems,” which are then used for clandestine eavesdropping.
The speakers concluded that as corruption becomes more complex and globalised, investigative journalism must become more collaborative, data-centric, and strategically planned to ensure reports remain effective and influential.
