Recorder

Recorder is an independent Romanian media outlet launched in 2017, built around a clear mission: to produce rigorous, evidence-based journalism in a media environment long affected by political pressure and commercial influence. From the outset, Recorder positioned itself as a digital-first newsroom, with a strong emphasis on transparency, depth, and public accountability. The outlet is best known for its investigative reporting, particularly on corruption, abuse of power, public spending, and institutional failures. Recorder’s journalism often combines longform articles with high-impact video investigations, using clear narratives, documentation, and on-the-ground reporting to make complex issues accessible to a broad audience. Its work regularly sparks public debate and, in some cases, official inquiries. Recorder operates primarily through reader support, relying on donations and memberships rather than advertising or corporate backing. This funding model allows the newsroom to remain editorially independent and to focus on time-intensive investigations without chasing clicks or commercial incentives. In a relatively short time, Recorder has become one of Romania’s most trusted watchdog outlets, demonstrating how audience-backed journalism can play a central role in strengthening democratic oversight and public trust.