Summary

Atlas News is built by contributors with deep insight into conflict, geopolitics, security, and strategy. Whether you're an open-source researcher, regional expert, former military analyst, academic, or journalist—if you can deliver high-quality, fact-based analysis, we want to hear from you.

This page outlines what we look for in contributor submissions, what makes a successful piece, and what to avoid. Before submitting, ask yourself:

Does this article bring meaningful, high-context insight to global events—and does it meet the analytical standard expected by readers in defense, government, or risk analysis roles?

We prioritize quality over quantity. First-time submissions are carefully reviewed by our editorial team. If your topic is time-sensitive (e.g., breaking within 12–24 hours), we recommend reaching out in advance or selecting something with a slightly longer shelf life.

Now, let’s get into what makes a successful Atlas News submission.

1. Strong Thesis. Actionable Insight.

Every article should revolve around a clear, well-supported idea. Whether you’re writing about regional instability, military procurement, influence operations, or a long-term strategic trend, ask yourself:

  • What specific insight or development is this piece revealing?
  • Is the topic timely, relevant, and strategically important?
  • Are you drawing from verifiable sources, personal expertise, or clearly explained reasoning?
  • Does this add value to readers beyond what's already being reported elsewhere?

We’re looking for clarity, not clutter. Every argument should be traceable, defensible, and grounded in logic, evidence, or experience.

2. Substance Over Summary

Atlas News does not publish thin or surface-level reporting. Whether your piece is based on open-source research, expert interpretation, or strategic forecasting, it should contain:

  • A clear connection between your evidence and your conclusions
  • Contextual depth (regional, historical, operational)
  • Thoughtful engagement with possible counterarguments or unknowns
  • When applicable: supporting data, original maps, quotes, or source links
  • A forward-facing perspective—what comes next?

We welcome visual aids, such as self-made graphics or annotated images, as long as sources are properly credited. If you’re citing intelligence or analysis not publicly available, explain the methodology or reasoning behind your conclusion.

3. Structure and Clarity Matter

High-quality analysis isn’t just about what you say—it’s about how you say it. Every submission should:

  • Begin with a short, clear summary of your core thesis
  • Be organized into sections with descriptive subheadings
  • Use topic sentences that frame the logic of each section
  • Conclude with a summary or forward-looking observation
  • Be proofread and professionally written

Your article should read like a well-prepared briefing: focused, structured, and readable for both specialists and the informed public.

10 Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  1. Data or news aggregation – Don’t simply repackage what’s already public. Add insight, not headlines.
  2. Opinion stacking – Avoid quoting multiple outside views without providing your own analysis.
  3. Vague generalizations – Be specific. Show your logic. Support every claim.
  4. History-only framing – Past context is useful, but your thesis should point forward. Unless you are writing an explainer piece that is meant to give historical framing.
  5. Hype or alarmism – We're not in the business of clickbait or speculation. Stay grounded.
  6. Oversaturated topics – Choose subjects where you can actually say something new or precise.
  7. Lightweight submissions – We require more than a paragraph of thoughts or loosely connected ideas.
  8. Unverifiable allegations – No anonymous claims, conspiracy theories, or speculative accusations.
  9. Listicles or overviews – Focused, in-depth reporting on one issue will outperform “top 5”–style roundups.
  10. Introductory-level writing – Our readers are informed. Skip the primers. Go straight to the insight.

Contributor Guidelines

✅ Do:

  • Ground your insight in either sourcing or real subject-matter experience
  • Provide attribution for claims, quotes, and images
  • Deliver well-structured, briefing-grade writing
  • Treat the work with the seriousness of an intelligence product

❌ Don’t:

  • Submit loosely formed opinions
  • Use sensational or political framing
  • Skip proofing or structural clarity
  • Plagiarize or republish other outlets’ work

Ready to Join?

We don’t require contracts, quotas, or deadlines. You contribute when you have something worth publishing. If you're ready to write with us:

📍 Start here

Include:

  • If it's your first time contributing, a short bio or CV.
  • Any relevant experience (defense, policy, journalism, OSINT, etc.)
  • A sample of past writing or a pitch for your first submission