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From the Panama Papers to the Epstein Files: Investigating Leaks and Large-Scale Data in the Age of AI
June 18, 2026
From the Panama Papers to the Epstein Files, large troves of data — whether leaked documents, legal records, or financial databases — have reshaped investigative journalism over the past two decades. Investigative journalists today face an overwhelming proliferation of data, growing authentication challenges fueled by AI-generated forgeries, and mounting pressure on source protection. At the same time, new technologies are revolutionizing how journalists can download, index, and analyze massive datasets to uncover stories of global significance.
This GIJN webinar brings together leading experts in investigative journalism to share hands-on strategies for securely managing leaks and navigating this rapidly evolving landscape. Experts will walk through the full life cycle of an investigation built on large data, from initial assessment and secure data management to corroboration, collaboration, and what to do with the data after publication.
Pierre Romera Zhang has been chief technology officer at the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ) since 2017, managing the platforms that enabled hundreds of journalists to collaborate on the Pandora Papers, the FinCEN Files, and the Panama Papers.
Alesya Marokhovska is editor-in-chief of iStories (Important Stories), an independent Russian investigative outlet known for its rigorous cross-border reporting under difficult conditions.
Bastian Obermayer is co-founder of Paper Trail Media and one of the journalists who broke the Panama Papers story. He has spent years developing practical approaches to evaluating, authenticating, and investigating large-scale data leaks.
Romina Mella is managing editor and investigative journalist at IDL-Reporteros in Peru, where she leads investigations at the intersection of politics, corruption, and financial crime.
The moderator is Sandrine Sawadogo, GIJN board member, investigative journalist and editor, and secretary general of Cenozo.
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Date: Thursday, June 18, 2026
Time: 9:00am US EDT (3:00pm CET) – Find out what time that is in your city.