PERSPECTIVES is the new label for multi-perspective and constructive journalism.
Co-financed by the European Union, PERSPECTIVES brings together journalists from the Czech Republic, Germany, Slovakia, Poland, Hungary, Lithuania and Ukraine. We collaborate in our international Newsroom to bring you content that matters across borders.
Editorial independence and accountability are of key importance in our work and two of the main principles included in our editorial guidelines that encompass our common vision and standards of ethical and high-quality journalism.
So if you want stories around current European affairs and a kind of journalism that inspires constructive debates and action, then PERSPECTIVES is exactly for you!
Every month, the members of the PERSPECTIVES Newsroom select a TOPIC OF THE MONTH. This month, we are zooming in on the topic of Climate Crisis and provide you multi-language and multi-perspective stories on that topic. To find out more about the thematic spectrum that PERSPECTIVES covers, have a look at our Key Topics.
All content pieces published under the PERSPECTIVES label can be found on the websites of our partners.
In many countries – as is currently the case in Serbia – local resistance is forming against the extraction of critical raw materials. But why is that? Bernardeta Babáková spoke to social researcher Nina Djukanović about the controversies caused by the planned transition to a green economy, the reasons for opposing the extraction of critical raw materials and different visions of a sustainable future. A sustainable transition is only possible if it is carried out in an equitable manner, says Djukanović.
In recent years, there has been increasing talk of the resilience of our civilisation in the face of global disasters - both natural and man-made. Vojtěch Brynych, who specialises in nuclear chemistry, has decided to dedicate his expertise to this topic. As a volunteer with ALLFED (Alliance to Feed the Earth in Disasters), he is involved in researching and developing strategies to ensure food security in crisis scenarios.
Nature also has a right to survive and its wealth is not a freely available resource for human well-being, says political scientist Petra Gümplová from Friedrich Schiller University Jena. In this interview, she describes how the current system of utilising natural resources came into being and what alternatives are available.
Article in German language: Natürliche Ressourcen sind nicht nur Chance für wirtschaftlichen Gewinn
by Johana Černochová for JÁDU
(also available in Czech Original) Read the Article at JÁDU
Rudolf Huliak, a former candidate for Slovak environment minister, says the world is controlled by perverse elites who want to legalize paedophilia and cannibalism and use climate change as a tool of global control. These shocking claims are not local fantasies, however, but the manifestation of a global phenomenon that involves using the potential of the Internet and social networks to orchestrate collective fantasies in order to gain political influence.
Up to 40 per cent of man-made emissions are related to construction activities - the production of building materials, the construction process itself, the use of buildings and their demolition. Yet this figure resonates only minimally. If the European Union wants to be climate-neutral by 2050, it needs to reduce an alarming 40 per cent to zero. The time horizon set seems infinitely distant; in fact, it is as close to today as 1998. The present and future of architecture in the context of the climate crisis.
We all crave living in energy efficient buildings with vertical gardens, cycling to work and school and fresh air. Before we can even imagine it, business has already turned this beautiful idea into a commodity, giving rise to a phenomenon called ecological gentrification. The sexy-sounding terms 'climate-friendly urban environment' or 'low carbon lifestyle' can actually lead to a wave of displacement and reinforce inequalities.
In the weeks following the large-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, the village of Kamianka, near Izum, was occupied and almost completely destroyed. A visit to Kamianka revealed local farmers striving to rebuild their lives after the occupation.
Original Photo story in Lithuanian language: Tušti kaimai, sudeginti ūkiai, užminuoti laukai. Kaip atkurti gyvenimą frontui atslūgus?
by Denis Vėjas for NARA Read the Article at NARA
PERSPECTIVES Newsroom
In an effort to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the diverse perspectives and experiences across Europe, our PERSPECTIVES Newsroom frequently conducts surveys concerning the topics we cover with our label.
With the launch of our latest topic of the month, the PERSPECTIVES editorial team conducted another transnational survey. Together they looked into the question of how the pressure to be successful affects the work culture in the media sector.
How does the pressure to be successful affect the work culture in the media sector?
Survey in English language by PERSPECTIVES Newsroom
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine has radically changed the security climate in Eastern and Central Europe. We asked local experts from Lithuania, Germany, Czech Republic and Slovakia to learn more about this new reality as we approached the second anniversary of February 24.
The questions for the experts were these:
Which steps were taken towards strengthening the security of your country since Russia‘s full-scale invasion of Ukraine?
Which steps are planned to be taken in the future and how are these changes affecting your society?
Survey in English language by PERSPECTIVES Newsroom
The economic competitiveness is one of the main causes of the deepening climate crisis. Despite this knowledge, global capitalism still forces us to constantly accumulate capital and expand. This way of our existence is environmentally and economically unsustainable. In our survey of the month, we approached experts from our partner countries with two questions on the topic of sustainability:
Is climate sustainability compatible with economic competitiveness? And should we even be concerned with such a dilemma?
How to make the debate about the European Green deal “sexier”?
Survey in English language by PERSPECTIVES Newsroom
Media plays a significant role in shaping public opinion, and biased reporting can contribute to societal polarization by reinforcing populist beliefs and perspectives. Conversely, constructive journalism strives for a more balanced portrayal of reality. It aims to steer away from sensationalism and fear-driven narratives and promotes a more optimistic and hopeful approach to news reporting. As such, we asked the members of our international Newsroom:
How can constructive journalism help in fighting populism?
Survey in English language by PERSPECTIVES Newsroom
Affordable, dignified, and adequate housing is particularly (but not exclusively) scarce in urban centers across Europe. The affected groups are primarily those with lower incomes, such as younger generations or individuals marginalized for various reasons. It quickly became apparent to us in the PERSPECTIVES Newsroom that the housing crisis requires our collective attention and innovative solutions. To showcase the many dimensions of the housing issue, we conducted a joint Europe-wide survey. We sought input from experts in politics, academia, the private sector, and citizen initiatives and asked:
In your opinion, what specific measures should be taken to address the housing crisis in your country/city?
The PERSPECTIVES editorial network has been working with Young Reporters, aspiring journalists who want to get hands-on experience in writing about transnational topics that matter to young people across Europe. This is what they have been working on...
The Republic of Moldova is striving to join the EU. However, pro-Kremlin politicians in the autonomous territory of Gagauzia are trying to prevent the country's EU integration with disinformation. They are receiving direct support from Moscow. There are Gagauz journalists who are fighting back, despite intimidation and hostility.
Original Article in German language: An der Frontlinie im Informationskrieg
by Young Reporter Yelizaveta Landenberger for JÁDU
(also available in Slovakian & Ukrainian) Read the Article at JÁDU
There are Lithuanians who regularly transport humanitarian aid to Ukraine. Last June, NARA junior reporter joined one of these crews: the Lithuanian Rifle Union Ukraine Support Group (PUG). This is her diary.
Original Essay in Lithuanian language: Išvažiuoti, kad sugrįžtum. Kelyje į Ukrainą su Lietuvos humanitarinės pagalbos misija
by Young Reporter Marie-Line Deleye for NARA Read the Article at NARA
Gymnasiums are considered to be the most prestigious fields of study to be found among Czech secondary schools. However, as many an overcrowded gymnasium student will tell you, they also have their downsides, which are not talked about as much. What are they? And how would the students themselves change them?
In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, educational choices are evolving. As the stigma surrounding vocational schools wanes, a growing number of individuals with higher education backgrounds are opting for vocational training in Lithuania. Through diverse narratives, we explore the success stories of those who have chosen this path, showcasing the transformative power and inclusive nature of vocational education in today's society.
Article in Lithuanian language: Nesimokysi – keliausi į profkę“ – mitas! Profesinių mokyklų atgimimas Lietuvoje
by Young Reporter Aiste Kačkyte for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
Explore the Hidden Reality of PMDD: A Radio Story by Aistė Kačkytė. Discover the lesser-known yet severe condition affecting millions of women globally. PMDD isn't just your typical PMS; it brings extreme emotional states, even suicidal thoughts. Through insightful discussions with psychiatric and gynecological experts, we unveil the complexities of this misunderstood disorder. Delve into non-drug treatments and essential support resources. It's time to shed light on PMDD and prioritize women's health.
Article in Lithuanian language: Priešmenstruacinis disforinis sindromas(PMDS): sunki būsena, kurią moterys vis dar renkasi kentėti
by Young Reporter Aiste Kačkyte for Bendra.lt Read the Article at Bendra.lt/M4C
In the Czech Republic, apprenticeships evoke conflicting passions. The “dumber” ones go to “apprenticeships”, lower wages in the future are fine because “they should have learned better”, on the other hand “golden Czech hands” still have their “golden bottom” in the craft and “in general there are actually few craftsmen”. Manual workers are often noticed on purpose, we don't address their conditions, why some apprentices go to factories, who can afford to work “on their own” or why the situation is worse in the peripheries.
Original Article in Czech language: Svědectví z učňáků. Čekají zlaté ručičky také zlaté časy?
by Young Reporters Olga Wawracz and Jiří Šimčík for revue Prostor Read the Article at revue Prostor
Since 24 February 2022, millions of Ukrainians have experienced first-hand what war and flight mean. In exile, they have to overcome many challenges and rebuild their lives. This takes a lot of strength. The three Ukrainian refugees featured in this series live in Warsaw, Berlin and Prague. They have experienced – and continue to experience – change and continuity in their identities at the same time. JÁDU author Daryna Melashenko met them.
The reportage about the Muslim community was created during the so-called Iftar - a joint dinner in the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan. In it, the author talks to her hosts about migration policy, their life in Turkey and Slovakia. How to integrate into a new culture and at the same time not give up the one from which one comes?
Original Article in Slovakian language: Naša kultúra nie je len „slovenská a žiadna iná“
by Young Reporter Eva Štefanková for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
Eva, Helena and Banán almost fell to the bottom due to drug addiction, but thanks to the help of the non-profit sector, they found a way to reintegrate into society. Today, all three work in a company that helps people break free from addictions and return to full functioning. What is it like to help people with similar fates?
Original Article in Slovakian language: Keby som prestal brať, do pol roka umriem
by Young Reporter Eva Štefanková for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
Supervised drug use helps reduce the risks of problematic use of illegal substances, as long-term research shows. In localities where application rooms are created, crime and the number of people who use drugs in public are decreasing. We found out what practice looks like in Brno and Paris.
Original Article in Slovakian language: Najväčším problémom je pocit hanby
by Young Reporter Eva Štefanková for Kapitál Read the Article at Kapitál
Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, is moving towards greater spatial segregation. Every new urban development in the city project contributes to this. This conversation with sociologist Tadas Šarūnas is an invitation to reflect on what kind of social reality exists in the city of Vilnius and how it affects the state of Lithuania's democracy.
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Būstas yra ne tik prekė, bet ir teisė. Apie Vilniaus kaitą su sociologu Tadu Šarūnu
by Young Reporter Austėja Pūraitė for NARA Read the Article at NARA
A Lithuanian-Canadian writer reflects on his connection with a Lithuanian village he was visiting every summer as he was growing up. What remains when the village is slowly disappearing?
Original Article in Lithuanian language: Pievų oro įkvėpimu iš Monrealio grįžtu į Onuškį
by Young Reporter Jonas Baltakis for NARA Read the Article at NARA
With the green transformation and the move away from fossil fuels, demand for electric cars is on the rise. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán wants to make Hungary the leading producer of electric car batteries in Europe. His plans are facing opposition from local residents.
Article in German language: Toxische Belastung durch Fabriken für Elektroauto-Batterien
by Young Reporter Johana Černochová for JÁDU
(also available in Czech Original) Read the Article at JÁDU
