Independent reporting is critical to the maintenance of public information and trust within a healthy civil society. As hostility towards journalism and distrust in media rises across the globe, COIL is pleased to sponsor a group of young investigative journalists focused on playing the critical role of the fourth estate in civic life. This program will focus on young investigative journalists who are covering rule of law stories. North Macedonia has a tradition of free, independent journalism with broad latitude in reporting on the affairs of state, and further discussions with United States experts in publication, reporting, and communications would develop useful connections and experiences for all participants.