The publication
Editorial standards
The Balkan Blog is an independent, one-person publication covering the Balkan peninsula through journalism, history and documentary film. These are the principles every story, film and photo essay is held to.
01
People before postcards
Every story starts with the people who live it. Places matter because of the lives lived in them, not the other way round.
02
History is alive
The past is not decoration. It shapes the present, and reporting here treats it that way — carefully, and with sources.
03
Look beyond the obvious
The capital cities and the famous bridges are only the beginning. The interesting stories are usually one bus ride further.
04
Be curious, not condescending
This is an outsider's publication, and it knows it. The job is to ask, listen and learn — never to lecture.
05
Tell the truth
Facts are checked before publication and corrected openly when they are wrong. Uncertainty is stated, not hidden.
06
Entertain through discovery
Stories should be a pleasure to read and watch — but the pleasure comes from what is found, not from invention.
07
Show, don't explain
Wherever possible, the reader or viewer is brought to the place and allowed to see for themselves.
08
Celebrate without propagandising
The Balkans deserves better than both the tired stereotypes and the polished brochure. This publication aims for neither.
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