What we do
Free and independent media is critical to informing citizens and to holding power to account but is increasingly under threat. The law upholds human rights and freedoms, but is often abused or inaccessible, undermining its purpose. Corporations can actively contribute to social progress, but only when they are able to balance the short-term needs of their shareholders with the long-term impact on their stakeholders communities.
Through our media, legal and data-driven expertise we offer a range of initiatives and services that bolster the resilience of independent media, strengthen access to the law and foster responsible business practices, fundamental pillars that are integral to free, fair and informed societies.
01
Independent Media
We bolster the resilience of independent media through media development programmes for journalists and newsrooms. Leveraging our global networks and legal expertise, we identify emerging threats to press freedom and empower key actors to effectively respond to them.
02
Access to Law
We work to foster a vibrant and fair legal ecosystem that is accessible to all, particularly vulnerable and marginalised communities. To achieve this, we also work to empower the global legal community to use its expertise in the public interest.
03
Responsible Business
We leverage our networks and data intelligence to encourage responsible business practices that support more equitable economies. We champion corporate transparency to raise human rights accountability and standards, enabling businesses to thrive whilst doing no harm.
What makes us different
Our approach is unique and powerful. With over 40 years’ experience supporting independent journalism globally and running the world’s largest pro bono legal service, we combine our media and legal expertise, alongside data intelligence, to strengthen free, fair and informed societies.
Our integrity, independence and freedom from bias are embodied in the Thomson Reuters Trust Principles which guide all our work.
What we offer
Capacity-building programmes
We provide journalists, media outlets, lawyers, civil society organisations, and business leaders tailored support to equip them with the information and skills they need to deliver their vital work.
Alongside our in-house experts, our global network of delivery partners and funders propels our work in responding to today’s most critical challenges.
Pro bono legal support
We run the world’s largest pro bono legal network, TrustLaw. Working with leading law firms, we facilitate free legal support, research and resources for civil society organisations, social enterprises and independent media in almost 200 countries. By encouraging the practice of pro bono worldwide, we enable fairer access to the law to uphold human rights.
Our data platform
We run the Workforce Disclosure Initiative, a leading voluntary disclosure data platform that reports on the way companies manage people across their supply chains. This data helps inform responsible investment decisions. Companies currently disclosing to WDI represent over 8 million workers, shared with an investor coalition managing $7.5 trillion of assets.
Our news platform
Context provides critical analysis on the significant and interconnected issues of climate change, the effects of technology on society and socio-economic inequality.
We adhere to the Thomson Reuters Trust Principles of integrity, independence, and freedom from bias. Our news is distributed on the Reuters wire, reaching a daily audience of up to one billion readers.
Research
Our range of research is produced with world-leading experts to empower journalists, civil society organisations and the private sector to make informed decisions and navigate emerging risks and threats. This research ranges from guides to help individuals work safely within legal frameworks to comparative analyses of national laws that can then be used to inform legislative change. We also map trends across the media, legal and business sectors.
Events
We believe in the power of the exchange of expertise, which is why collaboration is core to our delivery. We host and support a wide range of events, spanning closed-door roundtables and workshops to high-profile public forums, convening stakeholders from across sectors and geographies to address critical issues within our areas of focus.
Where we work
We are a global organisation headquartered in London with regional hubs in Nairobi, New York, Manila and Buenos Aires, and with staff members present in more than 30 countries worldwide.
Our people
View all peopleOur global team of 220 people brings a vast range of knowledge, diversity and experience to the implementation of our work. The Foundation’s Senior Leadership Team is responsible for driving the organisation’s strategy, growth and impact.
Partner with us
Do you share our mission and want to contribute to strengthening free, fair and informed societies? We build strategic and long-term relationships with donors and partners of all sizes – from individuals and family trusts, to businesses, foundations and institutions.
Annual Reports and Accounts
Our annual reports highlight the impact of our work and provide an overview of our financial performance.
2023 Report
Awards
We have received a number of awards in recognition of our work.
Connect with us
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