Bloggers, Freelancers & Part-time Journalists

For self-employed and part-time journalists or bloggers, getting a foothold in the world of media - a world that is partial to journalists from well-known newspapers, TV or radio stations - can be difficult.

This is also, if not even more, a problem when it comes to professional journalism organizations and labor unions. Many organizations leave freelance photographers or freelance journalists out in the cold, as membership is often conditional upon full-time employment.

The IAPP sees things differently

We want to give everybody a fair chance, because we believe that many freelancers and part-timers produce work that is on par with, if not better than, the work of their full-time colleagues. Freelancers who are denied the benefits of a professional organization all too often find themselves facing closed doors. Becoming an IAPP member is a worthwhile step that will help freelancers make their everyday work a little easier.

A change in thinking is overdue

The image of journalists that was prevalent 20 years ago has long since ceased to exist. While at one time, the staff at newsrooms and publishing houses consisted only of full-time employees, things are changing rapidly. The reason: money! Nowadays, many news organizations are discovering the value in hiring freelance journalists and subcontractors who run their own businesses.

This is where IAPP comes into play. Quality journalistic work shouldn´t be measured by whether a journalist works full time or part time. Unfortunately, this message hasn´t gotten through to many professional organizations and labor unions yet - freelancers still don´t stand a chance with them.

An IAPP membership can change all that. We are an international, independent group representing the interests of journalists, press photographers and media professionals, providing support so they can practice their occupation on a part-time basis.