Investigative and independent journalism in the Balkans, Central Europe, the EaP countries, as well as Cyprus and Malta, has been facing numerous challenges in recent years. In many countries in the region, the media landscape is full of self-censorship and a lack of critical reporting. Journalists who do pursue investigative stories face life threats, harassment and legal action, which further restricts their ability to report on sensitive issues.

These journalists often rely on international support, international collaboration and funding to carry out their work, and they face significant risks and obstacles in doing so. However, their work is crucial in holding those in power accountable and promoting transparency and democracy.

For over 16 years, Balkan Documentary Center has been committed to supporting filmmakers successfully complete their work. Following its established programs, BDC Discoveries and Docu Rough Cut Boutique, in 2024 BDC launched Balkan Watchers – Media Programme for Documentary Films and Podcasts, supported by Creative Europe MEDIA.

Starting with its pilot edition, Balkan Watchers has attracted the support of industry professionals who have guided and assessed the projects, focusing on their potential to generate social impact and promote international dialogue. They include: Margje de Koning (Movies that Matter, the Netherlands), Alexandru Solomon (One World Romania), Ondrej Kamenicky (One World Prague), Hugh Levinson (BBC Radio 4), Velislava Popova (Dnevnik, Bulgaria), Radu Ciorniciuc and Lina Vdovîi (filmmakers/journalists).

Who is it for? Journalists, filmmakers, activists working on documentary film projects or podcasts, in late development or production.

Eligible countries: EU: Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, Croatia, Poland, Slovenia, Slovakia, Hungary, Cyprus, Malta; non-EU: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Moldova, Ukraine, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina. Co-productions between EU and non-EU countries are strongly encouraged.

The program is split in three working modules throughout 2025:

• Module 1 (training and project development): April, during One World Romania 

•  Module 2 (pitching preparation): August, online

• Module 3 (pitch and awards): September – October, during Sofia Documental

Each edition, 10 documentary film projects and 10 podcasts are selected. After pitching in Sofia, 6 projects are awarded: 3 x 25,000 EUR for documentaries and 3 x 5,000 EUR for podcasts.