The aim of the award is to recognise the work of those who raise awareness of corruption in Latin America. “Good journalism is one of the best ways to demonstrate how corruption works in reality, illustrating corruption’s impact on daily lives and the systemic weaknesses that allow it to flourish”, said Marta Erquicia, Transparency International’s Program Coordinator for Latin America.

The highly experienced jury comprises prestigious journalists with a deep understanding of the Latin American reality: Gerardo Reyes, researcher for Miami’s El Nuevo Herald, and joint winner of the Pulitzer prize; Tina Rosenberg, The New York Times journalist and winner of the Pulitzer prize; Gustavo Gorriti, IPYS president; Michael Reid, editor for the Américas of The Economist; and Marcelo Beraba, director of the Grupo Estado and the Brazilian Association of Investigative Journalists. The jury will convene in July 2009.

The annual prize started in 2002, grants US $25,000 dollars (€19,500) to the best investigative report on corruption published in Latin American or Caribbean media. A further two awards, worth US $5,000 (€3,900) each will be granted to notable investigative work. To be eligible, reports must have been published between 1 January and 31 December 2008. The deadline for submissions (print, broadcast, or electronic media) is 31 March 2009.

For more information on the award, please click here, or visit IPYS's website.