Isabel Hilton

Graduated Hons MA in Chinese from Edinburgh University; postgrad study in Beijing and Shanghai. Worked as programme editor for the Edinburgh International Film Festival, then reporter at Scottish Television; joined the Sunday Times reporting from Latin America, Europe; joined The Independent at start-up as Latin America editor, subsequently Europe editor and Chief Feature Writer; left to write a book, presented the World Tonight (BBC) and Night Waves; reported several radio and TV documentaries for the BBC; staff writer on the New Yorker reporting from Latin America, Pakistan, Kashmir and Europe. Founded China Dialogue 2006 and built it into a successful not for profit newsroom publishing across four websites in 11 languages. Left in 2023. Now contributing Editor Prospect magazine, also publishing in ft, the Guardian and many other outlets; regular commentator on radio and television, hosting and speaking at public events, chair of Centre for Investigative Journalism and co-chair of the Bureau of Investigative Journalism. Senior Associate Fellow RUSI, visiting professor King's College London (Lau Institute). Honours: Hon doctorates Bradford and Stirling Universities and OBE for raising environmental awareness in China.