The IRE Journal is the online publication of Investigative Reporters & Editors, offering stories about investigative journalism, blueprints for award-winning work, useful tips for accessing public records and much more. Through thoughtful analysis, reported pieces, essays, and other media, the Journal aims to be an authoritative voice for journalists everywhere on best practices for this important work — as well as commentary on industry trends, pitfalls, and successes.

The IRE Journal began in the organization’s early days, first appearing in 1978. It was printed as a newspaper and magazine over the years, but shifted to an online-only format in 2025.

To pitch the Journal, please see our guidelines here.

For questions, please email journal@ire.org

Managing Editor: Adam M. Rhodes

IRE Executive Director: Diana Fuentes

An endowment by Dr. James Richard Bennett, Professor Emeritus of English at the University of Arkansas, supports publication of The IRE Journal. The IRE Journal is the online magazine of Investigative Reporters & Editors, headquartered at the Missouri School of Journalism.