Fondation Hirondelle (Hirondelle Foundation)

ABOUT WHO THEY ARE Fondation Hirondelle is a Swiss non-profit organization which provides information to populations faced with crisis, empowering them in their daily lives and as citizens. Founded in 1995 and based in Lausanne, Fondation Hirondelle is currently active in 8 countries on 3 continents. Through their work, millions of people in war-affected countries, post-conflict areas, humanitarian crises, and societies in democratic transition have access to media that speak to them and give them a voice. THEIR VISION Independent, credible and impartial information that is close to its audience contributes to ending conflict and building more peaceful societies. Access to this type of information, which is recognized under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights helps: A population to make informed decisions Restore trust between different components of society Fight against entrenched ideas that fuel conflict Give a voice to marginalized communities Promote dialogue Contribute to the inclusive development of societies THEIR APPROACH Fondation Hirondelle practices and defends responsible, independent, accurate journalism in conflict and post-conflict situations, in humanitarian crises and countries in democratic transition. Their information covers the news in the countries and regions where they work, as well as key issues that connect societies. Their debate programs bring together all political and social components of society. They facilitate the participation of ordinary people in public debate, and create a platform where everyone has a voice and people can seek common solutions to problems. THEIR PRINCIPLES  Journalism based on the verification of information, diversity of sources, a strict distinction between facts and comments  Journalism that is aware of its social function, and close to its public  The application of charters and codes founded in their values: independence, honesty, diversity, dignity  The promotion of dialogue  Anchoring their actions within local communities  Transfer of skills and sustainable development strategies THEIR VALUES INDEPENDENCE Guaranty absolute impartiality in the face of political and economic powers, to ensure the credibility of their information among the beneficiary populations HONESTY Report the facts as meticulously as possible, avoid editorial subjectivity, manage their relationships with their partners and donors in a frank and transparent way DIVERSITY Respect the culture of the context in which they work, in a spirit of tolerance. They broadcast in the languages of the populations they serve, working together with people of different cultural origins DIGNITY Putting human beings at the center of their concerns, establishing actions in line with their belief in universal human values, always paying attention to the most underprivileged, victims, and marginalized populations to help them be heard and respected