Barend Leijten is a prominent Dutch investigative journalist currently working with Follow the Money. Known for his in-depth financial investigations, Leijten has uncovered significant corporate and political scandals, earning him recognition and awards in the field of investigative journalism.
In 2022, Leijten launched a podcast series focusing on deep dives into financial and corporate investigations. The series, produced in collaboration with Follow the Money, aims to bring complex financial stories to a broader audience, using audio storytelling to engage listeners.
Leijten published a book detailing various financial scandals he investigated over the years. The book offers insights into the investigative process and the challenges of uncovering hidden financial malpractices, further establishing his authority in financial journalism.
Barend Leijten was awarded the prestigious De Tegel award for his investigative work on financial misconduct in the Netherlands. This accolade is one of the highest honors in Dutch journalism, recognizing Leijten's dedication to uncovering the truth and his contribution to public knowledge.
In a groundbreaking investigation, Leijten exposed a major political corruption scandal involving several high-ranking officials in the Netherlands. This investigation led to significant political fallout and reforms, showcasing Leijten's impact on Dutch journalism and governance.
Leijten joined Follow the Money, a Dutch platform dedicated to investigative journalism, particularly focusing on financial and economic issues. At Follow the Money, he continued to build his reputation as a leading investigative journalist, breaking several high-profile stories.
Barend Leijten published his first major investigation into corporate tax evasion in the Netherlands. This piece, published by De Correspondent, highlighted the complex mechanisms used by multinational corporations to minimize tax liabilities, sparking national debate and policy discussions.
In 2012, Barend Leijten joined De Correspondent, a Dutch online journalism platform known for its in-depth and narrative-driven reporting. Here, Leijten expanded his focus to include national and international financial investigations, contributing to the platform's reputation for quality journalism.
Barend Leijten began his journalism career at Het Parool, a major Dutch newspaper based in Amsterdam. During his tenure, he focused on local news and investigative pieces, honing his skills in uncovering complex stories and building a reputation for thorough reporting.