GIJN's Top Investigative Tools of 2025 (gijn.org)

The Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN) has announced its annual selection of top investigative tools for 2025, highlighting innovative resources that support journalists in holding powerful entities accountable amidst rising kleptocracy and media attacks. Among the standout tools is a machine learning-based detection system developed by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ), which utilizes an open-source platform to sift through millions of leaked records for critical information like passport data. This year’s list emphasizes tools that address real-world challenges faced by under-resourced newsrooms, such as AI-powered summarizers that condense lengthy public meeting videos, aiding reporters in extracting essential insights quickly. Additionally, GIJN showcased databases like the IDI Follow The Money Toolkit and the Violation Tracker Global portal, which equip investigative journalists with vital data concerning corporate misconduct and environmental impacts linked to the green energy supply chain. These tools enable deeper scrutiny into land grab issues resulting from raw material extraction and provide oversight of regulatory fines imposed on corporations. Experts stress the necessity of blending traditional reporting with these advanced technologies, especially in a landscape where misinformation generated by AI poses an ongoing threat to journalistic integrity. Overall, these developments underscore the pressing need for effective digital solutions to enhance investigative journalism's efficacy in the face of global challenges.