Nikhil Eapen, a 2022 Logan Nonfiction Fellow, is a seasoned journalist and researcher specializing in migrant worker rights, based in India. With over a decade of interdisciplinary expertise spanning investigative journalism, human rights advocacy, and grassroots activism, Nikhil has established himself as a powerful voice for the underrepresented and marginalized.
A Legacy of Investigative Journalism
Nikhil’s bylines have appeared in some of the world’s most respected publications, including The Guardian, The Caravan, The Hindu, The Wire, and Scroll.in. His journalism often delves into complex issues surrounding labor rights, exploitation, and systemic injustices, blending meticulous research with compelling storytelling.
In addition to his journalistic achievements, Nikhil has authored several groundbreaking human rights reports that have influenced policy and industry practices. These reports shed light on critical issues such as forced labor, human trafficking, and the exploitation of migrant workers, particularly in the Middle East’s construction sector. His research into responsible labor recruitment practices and systemic abuses has been instrumental in sparking global conversations about labor ethics and accountability.
Recognitions and Fellowships
In 2021, Nikhil was selected as a fellow of South Asia Speaks, a literary mentorship program dedicated to nurturing early-career writers from the Indian subcontinent. This fellowship provided him with an opportunity to refine his craft, expand his network, and further his commitment to storytelling that drives meaningful change.
The Logan Nonfiction Fellowship Project
As a Logan Nonfiction Fellow, Nikhil is embarking on an ambitious project that shifts his focus from labor rights to the environmental crisis in South Asia. He is working on a nonfiction book that explores the biodiversity crisis in the region through the poignant story of the near-extinction of Gyps vultures in the Indian subcontinent.
The book will investigate the catastrophic decline of these once-thriving scavengers, whose population plummeted by over 99% in the late 20th century. Nikhil’s narrative will weave together scientific research, environmental policy, and the socio-economic impact of this ecological disaster, offering readers an in-depth understanding of the delicate balance between biodiversity and human activity.
A Commitment to Storytelling with Impact
Nikhil Eapen’s work exemplifies the transformative power of storytelling in addressing some of the most pressing issues of our time. From advocating for the rights of vulnerable communities to raising awareness about ecological crises, his writing challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths and inspires them to take action.
Through his upcoming book and ongoing work, Nikhil continues to amplify voices that might otherwise go unheard, making a lasting impact on journalism, human rights, and environmental advocacy.