About Beyond the Lines
Independent Journalism. Context Beyond the Headlines.
Our Mission
Beyond the Lines is an independent journalism platform dedicated to exploring the stories, people and perspectives behind international headlines.
With an initial focus on Israel and the wider Middle East, the platform aims to provide European and international audiences with accessible reporting, historical context, interviews and thoughtful analysis.
In a world where complex events are often reduced to headlines, political positions and short social media posts, Beyond the Lines believes that understanding requires something more: curiosity, careful research, verified information and a willingness to listen.
Our goal is not to tell readers what to think, but to provide the information and context they need to develop their own informed perspectives.
Our Vision
Our vision is to develop Beyond the Lines into a trusted independent journalism platform where international events are explored through historical context, verified information and diverse human perspectives.
Beginning with Israel and the wider Middle East, we aim to expand our reporting through original interviews, investigative research, documentary storytelling and first-hand accounts.
We believe that responsible journalism should encourage curiosity, challenge assumptions and create space for informed discussion, even when perspectives differ.
Beyond the Lines strives to connect people with the stories behind the news, giving a voice to individuals and communities whose experiences deserve to be heard.
What We Cover
Beyond the Lines brings together independent articles, explanatory journalism, interviews, video conversations and human-interest stories.
Our coverage explores history, politics, society, culture, regional relationships and the experiences of people whose lives are shaped by events in Israel and the Middle East.
We aim to look beyond political statements and breaking news to understand the wider circumstances, different perspectives and human consequences of important developments.
Our Editorial Approach
We are committed to accuracy, transparency, editorial independence and responsible storytelling.
We seek to distinguish verified facts from allegations, opinion and analysis. Where information is disputed or cannot be independently confirmed, we aim to make that clear.
We believe meaningful journalism requires asking difficult questions, consulting credible sources, examining different perspectives and treating people with dignity.
Editorial independence also means remaining open to evidence that challenges assumptions.
Meet the Team
Leonie Raffaelli
FOUNDER & EDITOR
Born in the Netherlands and based in Norway, Leonie is the founder of Beyond the Lines. Her work focuses on independent journalism, historical context, interviews and the human stories behind international headlines.
Federico Raffaelli
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Originally from Argentina, Federico contributes research and writing exploring Israel, history, religion, politics and the connections between historical events and contemporary society.
FOUNDER & EDITOR
About Leonie Raffaelli
Born in the Netherlands and based in Norway for more than a decade, Leonie Raffaelli is an author, entrepreneur and the founder of Beyond the Lines.
With an international background and a strong interest in history, international affairs and human experiences, Leonie has developed a particular interest in Israel and the wider Middle East.
Her curiosity goes beyond political developments and breaking news. She is interested in understanding the historical circumstances, cultural identities, social complexities and personal experiences that shape the region.
This interest inspired her to establish Beyond the Lines — an independent journalism platform created to explore the stories and perspectives that often receive limited attention in international headlines.
Through continued journalism education, research and the development of original interviews, Leonie is working towards building a platform that combines accessible explanations, historical context and meaningful human stories.
She is particularly interested in speaking with journalists, researchers, women, community representatives and individuals whose personal experiences can contribute to a deeper understanding of complex events.
Her ambition is to develop Beyond the Lines into a respected independent publication that encourages critical thinking, responsible reporting and informed conversations across borders.
“Behind every headline, there are people, histories and perspectives worth understanding.”
— Leonie Raffaelli
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
About Federico Raffaelli
Originally from Argentina, Federico Raffaelli is a contributing writer at Beyond the Lines, with a particular interest in Israel, religion, politics and history.
His curiosity about the historical, religious and political forces that shape societies motivates his involvement in the platform.
Through research, writing and the exploration of different perspectives, Federico aims to contribute articles that help readers better understand the complex relationships between history, faith, politics and contemporary events.
He is particularly interested in exploring Israel's historical background, the role of religion in society, political developments and the connections between past events and present-day realities.
As part of Beyond the Lines, Federico shares the platform's commitment to independent journalism, thoughtful research and responsible storytelling.
Together with founder Leonie Raffaelli, he aims to contribute to a platform that encourages curiosity, informed discussion and a deeper understanding of the stories behind international headlines.
Connect With Us
At Beyond the Lines, we believe meaningful journalism begins with curiosity, open dialogue and a willingness to listen.
We welcome contact with journalists, researchers, historians, political analysts, organisations and individuals who can contribute valuable knowledge, experiences and perspectives.
We are particularly interested in:
- Interviews and first-hand accounts
- Historical and political research
- Stories from communities and individuals
- Journalistic collaborations
- Documentary and video projects
- Information and perspectives from Israel and the wider Middle East
Whether you have a story to share, expertise to contribute or an idea for collaboration, we welcome the opportunity to connect.
Get in Touch
We welcome enquiries from journalists, researchers, experts, potential contributors and individuals with stories or perspectives to share.
Whether you would like to propose an interview, share relevant information, explore a collaboration or contact our editorial team, we would be pleased to hear from you.
Beyond the Lines — Because every headline has a deeper story.