Key Takeaways:
- Hungarian investigative outlet Atlatszo faces financial challenges after losing US-funded grants.
- The loss of funding comes amid President Trump’s efforts to shut down USAID.
- Atlatszo plans to seek new donors and boost crowdfunding to stay afloat.
- Independent media in Hungary may struggle without external financial support.
Independent Media in Hungary Faces an Uncertain Future
On February 10, journalists from Atlatszo, a Hungarian investigative news outlet, gathered for an urgent meeting. The topic? How to secure new funding after losing critical grants from intermediaries tied to the US Agency for International Development (USAID).
The grants, which were halted amid President Donald Trump’s push to close USAID, have left Atlatszo in a tough spot. Without these funds, maintaining independent journalism in Hungary just got a lot harder.
Why This Funding Matters
International grants like those from USAID have long been a lifeline for independent media in Hungary. These funds allow outlets like Atlatszo to investigate important stories, hold power to account, and operate without interference from the government or other powerful interests.
However, President Trump’s efforts to dissolve USAID have rippled across the globe, leaving many organizations that rely on its funding in a financial bind. Atlatszo is one of them.
The Impact on Atlatszo
Tamas Bodoky, Atlatszo’s managing editor, made it clear: without these grants, maintaining independent media in Hungary will be incredibly challenging. “Independent journalism is already under pressure in this country,” Bodoky said. “Losing this funding could make it even harder to survive.”
Atlatszo has been a vocal advocate for transparency and accountability in Hungary. The outlet has exposed corruption, investigated misuse of public funds, and given a voice to marginalized communities. But without funding, these efforts may grind to a halt.
Looking for New Solutions
So, what’s next for Atlatszo? The outlet is turning to new strategies to stay financially stable. Journalists at the meeting discussed reaching out to new donors and increasing their reliance on crowdfunding.
Crowdfunding, where individuals contribute small amounts of money to support a cause, has become a vital tool for independent media. Atlatszo hopes that its audience will step up to help fill the funding gap.
But crowdfunding isn’t a guaranteed solution. It requires constant effort to engage donors and build trust. Atlatszo will need to convince its supporters that independent journalism is worth fighting for.
A Broader Struggle for Press Freedom
Atlatszo’s situation reflects a larger challenge for independent media in Hungary. Over the years, the Hungarian government has been accused of tightening its grip on the press, making it harder for outlets to operate freely.
International funding has been a critical lifeline for many independent outlets. But as these funds dry up, the future of press freedom in Hungary grows increasingly uncertain.
What’s at Stake?
Independent media plays a crucial role in any democracy. It holds those in power accountable, provides accurate information to the public, and gives a platform to diverse voices.
In Hungary, where the government has been accused of eroding democratic norms, independent outlets like Atlatszo are more important than ever. If they disappear, there will be few voices left to challenge authority and speak truth to power.
The Road Ahead
Atlatszo’s journalists are determined to keep fighting. They’re exploring new funding sources, building relationships with international donors, and ramping up their crowdfunding efforts.
But the road ahead won’t be easy. Atlatszo will need to adapt quickly and find creative ways to sustain itself. The outlet is also calling on its audience to get involved, whether through donations or by spreading the word about its work.
Final Thoughts
The story of Atlatszo is a reminder of the challenges faced by independent media around the world. In Hungary, where press freedom is under threat, outlets like Atlatszo are a vital lifeline for democracy.
While the loss of USAID funding is a significant blow, it’s not the end of the story. With determination, innovation, and support from readers, Atlatszo can continue its important work.
The fight for independent journalism in Hungary is far from over. But one thing is clear: the future of press freedom depends on it.