Deadline: January 15, 2026
The Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Berlin Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications. This fully funded opportunity invites journalists from countries with restricted press freedom or challenging working conditions to spend six months in Berlin, Germany, from June to November 2026.
This fellowship, hosted by Reporters Without Borders Germany (RSF), offers selected journalists a valuable opportunity to rest, reflect, and strengthen their skills in digital security, resilience, and professional networking — all while enjoying a supportive environment that prioritizes their safety and well-being.
About the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Berlin Fellowship 2026
The RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026 aims to support journalists who face threats, censorship, or restrictions in their home countries. The program provides a safe space to pause, learn, and reconnect with the values of free and independent journalism.
During the six-month stay in Berlin, fellows will participate in professional training sessions, network with media experts, and receive practical and psychosocial support to help them regain strength and confidence for their future work.
Objectives of the Fellowship
The RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026 is designed to:
- Provide a safe and supportive space for journalists under pressure or threat.
- Offer specialized training in digital security and self-defense against surveillance, hacking, and online harassment.
- Promote professional networking with German and international media professionals.
- Strengthen resilience and well-being through psychosocial support and peer exchange.
- Encourage fellows to share their experiences and skills within their home countries after completing the program.
Benefits of the RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026
Selected fellows will receive a comprehensive support package covering all essential needs throughout their stay in Berlin. This includes:
- Full coverage of visa and travel expenses to and from Berlin.
- Furnished accommodation for the entire duration of the fellowship.
- A monthly stipend to cover living expenses.
- Health and travel insurance throughout the stay.
- A public transportation pass for travel within Germany.
- Workshops and training sessions on safety, digital protection, and media resilience.
- Networking opportunities with local journalists, media organizations, and civil society actors.
- Psychosocial support and peer learning sessions to strengthen personal resilience.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants for the Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Berlin Fellowship 2026 must meet the following requirements:
- Be a professional journalist, citizen journalist, or freelance journalist.
- Be currently working in a country with limited press freedom or facing challenging journalistic conditions.
- Have a demonstrated commitment to free, independent journalism and a willingness to contribute to positive change in their local media environment.
- Be able to participate fully in all fellowship activities and training.
- Be fluent in English, as all program activities will be conducted in English.
- Commit to returning to their home region after completing the fellowship to apply and share their new skills.
Duration and Location
- Program Duration: June – November 2026
- Location: Berlin, Germany
Fellows will live and work in Berlin, engaging with mentors, peers, and trainers in a dynamic learning and cultural environment that fosters both personal growth and professional development.
Application Details
- Application Deadline: January 15, 2026
- Application Process: Interested applicants are required to complete an online application form and submit supporting documents such as a CV, references, and a statement of motivation.
- Selection: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further evaluation.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to prepare all required documents ahead of time and to clearly describe their professional experiences, current challenges, and motivations for applying to the program.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Highlight your experience as a journalist working in difficult or repressive conditions.
- Clearly express your motivation and how the fellowship will contribute to your professional development.
- Emphasize your commitment to digital security, independent journalism, and sharing acquired knowledge with others.
- Ensure all application materials are well-organized and error-free before submission.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: January 15, 2026
- Fellowship Period: June – November 2026
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to apply online via the official RSF application portal.
For additional details on eligibility, benefits, and program structure:
👉 Read more about the RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026
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