Guidance for Contributors
Guidance for Contributors
We are delighted to have you involved with Fair Observer and thank you for your participation. We want your voice to shine through, as we strive to create a 360° environment for thought-provoking articles from around the world.
What types of articles does Fair Observer publish?
-
Insight Articles (500 word assessment of a key issue) are a succinct explanation of the issue with an overview of contributing factors and an anticipation of what may happen in the future. Opinion is welcome but should not overwhelm.
-
Analytical Articles (750-1,500 word analysis on a particular issue) focus on developing insights in greater detail by providing more evidence and a historical context.
-
Human Perspectives (1,000 word case study about the effect of issues on individual lives) have a strong narrative voice. Successful articles draw heavily on direct quotes and are written by those close to the subject and “on the ground.”
What does Fair Observer look for in writing style?
Fair Observer is an analytical publication, so your argument should be organized and carefully constructed. Include sources and citations in brackets within the same sentence. The longest articles should have a “big picture” perspective on issues, events, and trends of global significance. The best in-depth reports make connections between seemingly disparate elements and offer explanations that are highly insightful. We believe that good writing is marked by an economy of expression and a richness of insight.
How do I submit?
First, fill out our profile form by clicking here. Then e-mail your article along with your photograph as attachments to submissions@fairobserver.com. Include a title and one sentence summary at the start of your article.
Because of the volume of submissions, we cannot guarantee an immediate response. By submitting you cede to us the right to edit the article, have the final say on edits, and, in some cases, choose not to publish the article. You agree to be available to answer questions and requests for clarification, sources, or fact checks. We may amend headlines and create sub-headings so that the article is compliant with Fair Observer’s style. Ideally, your article should not have been published before.
If you are at risk for expressing certain views under your real name, please reach out to us at submissions@fairobserver.com and state that you wish to write under a pseudonym or an alias and provide an explanation for your particular personal situation. Your information will not be disclosed to an outsider without your prior consent unless we are legally required to do so.