The Finnish Foundation for Media and Development is a development foundation specialised in freedom of expression and media.
We promote freedom of expression as a human right and a cornerstone of democracy. We support and promote press freedom, more diverse media, journalists’ rights and better communication in developing countries and in Finland. We believe that freedom of expression is a corner stone of democracy and that citizens need critical, unbiased information so that they can influence the society.
Activities and results
journalists
We train people in the media field
In 2021, Vikes supported the training of 838 journalists and documentarists.
partners
We promote freedom of expression in developing countries
%
women
We support equality and female journalists
News and events
Vikes trained media managers and editors on sexual harassment in Somalia
For the first time in Somalia, men were trained on sexual harassment and gender equality.In early December, Vikes organised a training session in Somalia for media managers and editors on sexual harassment. This is reportedly the first time that such training has been...
Vikes trained media managers and editors on sexual harassment in Somalia
For the first time in Somalia, men were trained on sexual harassment and gender equality.
Journalism Forum Forocap in Guatemala: Journalism is resistance
Central American journalists gathered in Guatemala for training and networking at the end of October. There is a growing need for cooperation and peer support as press freedom is eroding in all countries of the region.
Reeta Pöyhtäri, University Researcher, is the new chair of Vikes
According to the new chairman, Vikes is a unique player and it has been great to watch it grow. "The importance of work has not been diminished in the world," says Reeta Pöyhtäri.
Video: patriarchy in the newsroom in the treatment of women and also in the workplace
How is patriarchal thinking reflected in the daily life of the newsroom? Vikes and an international team of women journalists produced a video in which journalists in Nepal and Kenya reflect on how male power is reflected in media mentality.
Nicaraguan journalists in exile in Costa Rica: Marta Irene Sánchez
"Journalists need each other," says a Nicaraguan journalist who was forced to leave her country. She now lives in Costa Rica, like many independent journalists in Nicaragua.
We work for development in Asia, Africa and Latin America.
In Finland, we train journalists and students in areas such as sustainable development and the importance of media diversity and pluralism.