EJN Mekong Water Governance Reporting Grants 2026
Application Deadline : June 14, 2026, 11:59 PM (Asia/Bangkok)
Overview – Inclusive Water Governance in the Mekong
For over 65 million people, the Mekong River is a lifeline, providing food security and economic stability. Today, rapid hydropower development and climate change are disrupting this rhythm, threatening fisheries, rice fields, and traditional livelihoods.
By 2026, the Mekong has become a geopolitical puzzle, with decisions from regional powers shaping the lives of over 70 million people. This grant seeks in‑depth reporting on how transboundary policies affect communities and who truly gets a voice in river governance.
Grant Opportunity
With support from Oxfam, EJN will award up to 13 story grants (USD 2,000 each) to journalists from Mekong countries. Selected grantees will receive:
Funding support
One‑on‑one mentorship from experienced journalists
Guidance from EJN’s Gender Equity and Social Inclusion (GESI) specialist
Project Themes and Objectives
Applicants are encouraged to pitch multimedia, cross‑border, or investigative stories addressing GESI in water governance. Preferred topics include:
- Local water access
- Watershed or riverine protection
- Community‑led water management
- Flood risk mitigation
- Community‑driven water governance
Stories should raise global awareness and explore under‑reported issues.
- Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must be from Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, or Vietnam - Groups of journalists are eligible (with one lead applicant)
- Applications must be in English
- Open to journalists in all media (online, print, TV, radio)
- Freelancers and early‑career reporters encouraged
- Transparency required if using generative AI tools
- Story Logistics:13 grants of up to USD 2,000 each
- Grants issued in July 2026
Stories must be published by December 31, 2026
Safety planning required (physical, digital, mental health)
Stories may be in local languages but must include English translation
Budgets must be reasonable (travel, accommodation, translation, stipend ≤30%)
For full details visit the official website:EJN