Bellingcat: Truth in a Post-Truth World 2020

Formation of Bellingcat

Bellingcat was established as a collective of citizen investigative journalists aimed at uncovering the truth in a post-truth world. The organization emerged to tackle complex news stories using innovative investigative techniques, setting a precedent for citizen journalism.

Eliot Higgins Leads the Team

Eliot Higgins, a key figure at Bellingcat, operates from his home in Leicester. His leadership is crucial as the organization embarks on various investigations, providing direction and inspiration to a diverse team of truth-seekers.

MH17 Disaster Investigation

Bellingcat focused on the MH17 disaster, utilizing open source investigations to verify claims and expose the truth behind the tragic event. Their groundbreaking work helped shed light on the circumstances surrounding the plane's downing.

Research on the Syrian Civil War

Investigating the Syrian Civil War, Bellingcat employed digital methods and crowdsourcing to analyze incidents and participate in discussions about the conflict. This inquiry represented a commitment to unveil the realities faced by civilians amidst disinformation.

Poisoning of a Russian Spy

Bellingcat investigated the poisoning of a Russian spy in the UK, showcasing their ability to leverage social media and digital information in their research. The inquiry revealed the complexities of international relations and safety in the current political climate.

Access Granted to Filmmaker

Filmmaker Hans Pool was given exclusive access to follow Bellingcat's investigations, documenting their unique approach to journalism. This opportunity allowed for a deeper understanding of the methods and motivations driving the collective.

Pioneering Open Source Investigations

Bellingcat pioneered open source investigations, combining digital forensics with crowdsourced information to provide timely news. Their innovative strategy outpaced traditional journalism methods, challenging preconceived notions about news reporting.

International Criminal Court’s Arrest Warrant

For the first time in history, the International Criminal Court issued an arrest warrant based solely on evidence garnered from social media by Bellingcat. This landmark event highlighted the potential of modern technology in legal accountability.

Christiaan Triebert's Recognition

Bellingcat member Christiaan Triebert received the prestigious European Press Prize for his innovative coverage of the failed Turkish coup. His recognition affirmed the impact that Bellingcat's approach had on contemporary journalism.

Face of Propaganda and Truth

As Bellingcat navigates a landscape filled with propaganda, they confront the challenge of discerning truth from falsehoods. Their work raises critical questions about the reliability of governments and traditional media in an era of rapid information exchange.

Changing Dynamics of Governance

The collective reflects on the changing dynamics of governance and technology in the 21st century. Their investigations reveal how advancements influence the political landscape and the quest for accountability among world leaders.