Global Press cuts 37 reporter contracts amid funding crisis before US election
Global Press, a nonprofit news organization founded in 2006, is at a critical juncture. The organization, which trains and employs local women journalists in countries with limited press freedom and economic opportunity, is terminating the contracts of 37 reporters by the end of the year due to funding constraints. Four full-time employees have been laid off, and seven contract reporters and editors have been let go.
A Shift in Focus
Global Press's publication, Global Press Journal, is narrowing its focus to three key areas: global health, civil liberties, and the environment. The organization plans to offer certificate programs, two-year fellowships, and senior reporting residencies to its reporters. Those who are let go will be offered these new opportunities.
A Difficult Decision
"It takes a lot to change an institution," said Cristi Hegranes, CEO and founder of Global Press. "I have been doing this for almost my entire adult life. I derive a significant part of my identity and my purpose in the world around creating jobs for journalists." Hegranes added that creating jobs for journalists is central to who she is and what drives her, and it "absolutely breaks my heart" to let people go.
Funding Challenges
The organization's annual budget is $5.5 million, with about five months' worth of reserves. Hegranes cited a freeze in donations due to the US presidential election as a significant factor in the layoffs. "This summer, it became clear to us that many donors were pausing their giving until the US presidential election results were final," she said. "That freeze deeply impacts cash flow and the logistics of our business. That is what prompted layoffs - an unfortunate but necessary business decision."
Concerns from Former Staffers
However, some former staffers have expressed concerns about the organization's management and work culture. Twelve former staffers, including seven who were recently let go, described an idealistic venture that has had some successes but has been criticized for overpromising and underdelivering, with a disorganized editorial strategy and a toxic work culture permeated with fear and secrecy.
Impact on Reporters
The layoffs have a significant impact on the reporters, particularly women in developing countries who rely on Global Press as their primary source of income. "I am falling apart," said a reporter from the Democratic Republic of the Congo who worked for Global Press for several years and is raising four children on her own. "Life has become extremely difficult. I haven't found another job, and I have a family to support."
A New Model
Despite the challenges, some reporters are hopeful about the organization's new model. Gamuchirai Masiyiwa, a reporter in Zimbabwe, said she and her colleagues are excited about the new model and can't wait to see where it will take them.
Concerns about Non-Disparagement Agreements
Former editors have raised concerns about the use of non-disparagement agreements as a condition of receiving severance payments. Nicole Neroulias Gupte, who was an editor at Global Press from 2021 to 2022, noted that such agreements are rare in other journalism or nonprofit organizations. "It's highly unethical, especially considering that many of these journalists lack access to legal counsel or financial safety nets," she said.
A Challenging Environment
Veterans of the organization also described a challenging environment in the US, where Global Press now employs 12 full-time employees remotely. An American former editor at Global Press said: "Working there left me traumatized, and I'm still afraid of the CEO. It's too draining to relive that experience. I've spoken up before, but nothing changed. I hope this time will be different."
Conclusion
Global Press is at a turning point, facing significant challenges in funding and management. While the organization is trying to adapt to a new model, former staffers and reporters have expressed concerns about the impact on their lives and careers. The future of Global Press and its mission to support women journalists in developing countries remains uncertain.
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