A strong year behind us, a busy one ahead
ENAJ hosted its Annual General Meeting virtually last year. The meeting, which took place December 11, brought together representation from almost every European national guild. The AGM provided a good opportunity to revisit a busy 2025, while offering a preview of what lies ahead.
While in-person meetings are generally preferred, the online format gave us one clear advantage: representation. Journalists from 19 countries logged in, a feat that truly reflects the diversity of the members the network serves.
Chairwoman Yanne Boloh opened the meeting with a review of ENAJ’s activities over the past 12 months. The year saw a full programme of low-budget press trips (LBPTs), organised by host guilds and covering a wide range of agricultural themes in various regions. From policy-focused visits in Brussels to farm-level reporting in Norway, the trips underline the value of practical, journalist-led exchanges.
In 2025, ENAJ strengthened cooperation with partner organisations, increased its visibility at external events, and expanded its associate membership. Regular Management Committee (MC) meetings, largely held online, kept the organisation running smoothly throughout the year.
Several MC members contributed updates during the AGM. Treasurer Katharina Seuser provided a positive report on the healthy status of ENAJ’s finances.
An update on the young journalists programme was presented on behalf of Rachel Martin, ENAJ’s Young Journalist program coordinator. In 2026, young journalists can expect new opportunities for mentorship and networking. The programme is aimed at early to mid-career agricultural journalists within the ENAJ network.
The communications team highlighted efforts to improve direct contact with national guilds, refresh contact lists and strengthen ENAJ’s online presence, alongside a well-attended webinar aimed at supporting guild activity.
A healthy programme for 2026 is already taking shape. Planned low-budget press trips include Finland and France, alongside webinars and a Brussels-based symposium focused on working within the EU policy environment. ENAJ will also continue its involvement with EU-FarmBook and further develop activities for young journalists, including mentoring and networking opportunities. This year’s EU-FarmBook press event will take place in France.
The AGM closed on a positive note, with thanks to all participants for their engagement and time. Taken together, the discussions reflected a network that remains active, relevant and well connected — and one that is clearly heading into another busy year.
If the past year was any indication, ENAJ shows no signs of slowing down. With press trips, events and collaborations already lined up, the year ahead looks set to be another busy one for the network.
Stay tuned for news on upcoming events!