The Intercontinental Connection of Journalists (ICJ) announces the establishment of a formal strategic partnership with the SAARC Journalist Forum (SJF), one of the most established and respected regional associations of journalists in South Asia, with chapters spanning Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka.
The partnership was formalized through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by Raju Lama, International President of the SAARC Journalist Forum, and Saša Dobrijević, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of ICJ Global Media Group LLC — an agreement that joins New York and Belgrade in a shared commitment to the defense of independent journalism.
The Significance of This Partnership
The challenges facing journalists today rarely respect national borders, and neither should the institutions built to support them. Over the course of its history, the SAARC Journalist Forum has established itself as a credible and principled voice for media professionals across South Asia, engaging with international institutions — including the United Nations — on matters of governance, transparency, and public accountability. It is precisely this commitment to institutional integrity and professional dignity that makes SJF a natural and valued partner within the ICJ Friends network.
Through this partnership, SJF joins a growing community of organizations united by a common purpose: to build a global journalism profession that is better connected, better supported, and more resilient in the face of shared challenges.
A Partnership Grounded in Opportunity
Under the terms of this Memorandum, journalists affiliated with the SAARC Journalist Forum are invited to join ICJ as members, gaining access to:
- A global publishing platform and an international network of media professionals
- The ICJ Press Card
- Professional training and participation in international media panels
- Eligibility for the ICJ Global Awards
- For Premium Members, access to the ICJ Marketplace for the international placement of investigative and exclusive journalism
A Statement from ICJ
“This partnership reflects the very purpose for which ICJ was founded — to build lasting bridges between journalists who share the same values and the same sense of responsibility, regardless of where they call home. The SAARC Journalist Forum has demonstrated genuine leadership in defending press freedom across South Asia, and we are honored to stand alongside them in this shared mission.” — Saša Dobrijević, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, ICJ Global Media Group LLC
Statement by Raju Lama International President, SAARC Journalist Forum (SJF)
“The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ICJ and the SAARC Journalist Forum marks an important step toward strengthening press freedom, the rule of law, and the safety of journalists across South Asia.
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to promoting ethical journalism, defending freedom of expression, and enhancing legal awareness among media professionals. At a time when journalists in many parts of the region face increasing challenges, closer cooperation between legal experts and media organizations is essential to safeguard democratic values and ensure that journalists can work without fear or intimidation.
Through this partnership, we hope to develop training programs, policy dialogues, research initiatives, and advocacy efforts that empower journalists with greater knowledge of legal protections and international standards. The collaboration will also encourage regional cooperation and strengthen solidarity among media professionals throughout the SAARC region.
The SAARC Journalist Forum remains committed to working with the ICJ and other partners to build a more independent, responsible, and resilient media environment that serves the public interest and upholds human rights.”- Raju Lama International President, SAARC Journalist Forum (SJF)
Looking Ahead
This Memorandum represents the foundation of an ongoing collaboration. In the months ahead, ICJ and the SAARC Journalist Forum will work jointly on shared initiatives and coordinated efforts aimed at strengthening press freedom and professional solidarity across South Asia and the wider global journalism community.
Journalists affiliated with SJF are warmly invited to join ICJ and become part of an international network dedicated to the advancement of independent, ethical journalism.
This collaboration is published at Times Asian and SAARC Journalism Forum official website.
SAARC Journalism Forum publication.
Please find full memorandum bellow:
