Nicola Careem

Multi-award-winning journalist, senior newsroom leader, experienced c-suite executive with over two decades covering conflict, crisis, human rights. Led large international teams across Asia, Middle East, Europe, including as BBC South Asia Bureau Chief and now Editor-in-Chief at RFE/RL, a US Congress-funded NGO promoting democracy and human rights through independent news in repressive and conflict-affected regions. As part of RFE/RL’s executive leadership, shapes editorial strategy, manages complex global operations, and works with CEO on stakeholder engagement, institutional planning, crisis response. Brings first-hand knowledge of the Global South and a strong record of ethical leadership in some of the world’s most challenging environments. Has worked with governments, international institutions, civil society to drive impact, influence policy and advocate for those whose voices are often ignored. Work has always focused on dignity, equality, justice. Now focused on bringing that experience to a role committed to tackling the world’s most urgent challenges.

• High-Impact Storytelling, Built a globally recognized body of work on conflict and justice – covering wars, refugee crises, and humanitarian emergencies in Yemen, Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, Gaza, and beyond – that has informed international audiences and policy debates. Her reporting has exposed human rights abuses, war crimes and the plight of marginalized communities, often sparking conversations in parliaments and the UN.
• Strategic Leadership, Led teams through historic crises – from the COVID-19 pandemic in South Asia to the fall of Kabul – managing complex operations while maintaining the highest editorial standards. Successfully spearheaded organizational transformations (such as newsroom restructures and digital-first strategies) to increase impact and efficiency across diverse country operations.
• Advocacy and Influence, Engaged with senior global stakeholders to advance democratic values and human rights. Briefed and advised figures in the U.S. Congress, UK Foreign Office, and international NGOs on issues of press freedom and conflict resolution. Her journalism and expert testimony have contributed to concrete policy changes, including strengthened protections for journalists and increased humanitarian aid.
• Ethical & Empathetic Leadership, Recognized for a collaborative and compassionate leadership style that prioritizes equality, inclusion, and staff welfare. Mentored dozens of journalists from underrepresented backgrounds, championing gender equality and diversity in every team. Created platforms to amplify local voices and stories, ensuring communities in conflict zones and climate-vulnerable regions are heard on the global stage.
• Global Perspective, Extensive on-the-ground experience across Asia, the Middle East, and Africa with an intimate understanding of the Global South’s challenges, from poverty and conflict to climate vulnerability. Adept at navigating multicultural environments and building cross-sector partnerships, Nicola bridges grassroots realities with high-level decision-making to drive international initiatives forward.