Awards under Global Ireland Media Challenge Fund

The Department of Foreign Affairs has established a Global Ireland Media Challenge Fund.

The Fund aims to increase knowledge, understanding and citizen engagement in global issues, in the context of the government’s Global Ireland Programme - growing our footprint, impact and influence in the world. By building the capacity of media outlets, the Fund will support the provision of public information about major geo-political developments and the changing nature of Ireland’s role in the world across a range of topics and geographical regions. A desired outcome is that the public will, as a result of increased media engagement and ensuing debate, develop a greater understanding of international issues, including the context in which Ireland’s foreign policy is developed and pursued.

The Media Challenge Fund will be used for the purposes of generating media engagement on important global developments relevant to Ireland, arising, inter alia, from Ireland’s UN Security Council Membership, global challenges, and Irish foreign policy priorities. Complete editorial independence is one of the core principles of the Fund.

An Expert Advisory Panel was established to provide independent expertise, and to help ensure good governance through informed decision making on all applications.

3 submissions were received from media that have resulted in the awarding of grant funding. The organisations in receipt of funding, and the amounts they will receive in 2022 are as follows:

• RTE - €360,000
• Virgin Media Television - €200,000
• The Journal - €90,000

Applications to the fund will remain open through the year and adjudication of submissions will take place on a case by case basis. For further queries on the fund please mail at GIUmediachallenge@dfa.ie