BRUSSELS - In this first online session connected to the Expert-reviewed Cross-Border Programme, speaker Stéphane Horel, investigative journalist with Le Monde, will present the Forever Pollution Project and the Forever Lobbying Project.
The European Cross-border Investigations programme for 2026-27 provides reporting teams with an opportunity to connect with subject matter experts to strengthen their investigative research. This type of collaboration requires a methodology to build mutual trust and benefit.
Scientists need reassurance that their reputations won't be compromised, whilst journalists must demonstrate expertise and preparation when approaching potential expert partners.
To support this endeavour, Journalismfund Europe is organising a series of four events for journalists and editors, to understand best practices for successful projects. Find out more about the other sessions here.
Session 1: The Forever Project
In this first session, speaker Stéphane Horel, investigative journalist with Le Monde, will present the Forever Pollution Project and the Forever Lobbying Project. Between 2023-2025, these collaborative journalistic projects revealed the scale of the PFAS crisis in Europe with the support of over 20 experts.
The investigation required knowledge in the following disciplines: environmental chemistry, environmental engineering, environmental law, social science, public health, criminology.
Horel will discuss how to manage and coordinate reporting on such a complex combination of subjects between journalists and other experts consulted.
Event Details
Date: Tuesday 24 February 2026 at 2:00 - 3:00 PM CET
Where? Online via Zoom
Please note that the webinar will not be recorded.
More programme information
The first public open call deadline for the European Cross-border grant programme is on Thursday, 19 March 2026 13:00 CET (Brussels). The following deadline will be on the 21st of May 2026.
Find further grant information and the application portal here.
