The RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026 in Germany is now accepting applications. Journalists from all around the world are welcome to apply for this six-month fellowship program, which will run from June to November, through Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Germany.
With an emphasis on journalist safety and defense against potential dangers, the fellowship seeks to educate and assist journalists in digital security and self-defense. The curriculum equips participants to work in the digital media environment more safely and effectively by providing them with specific training in digital security.
The Berlin Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy, and Public Enterprises provides full funding for this fellowship in Germany. Qualified overseas applicants can apply because there is no application fee. Additional information is given below.
Host Country: Germany
Hosted By: The Berlin Senate Department for Economic Affairs
Opportunity Type: Fellowship
Eligibility Country: International Students
Financial Coverage: Fully Funded
Eligibility Criteria:
- Professional journalists, bloggers, media professionals, and citizen journalists are all eligible to apply.
- Digital Risk Exposure: Candidates should be aware of online dangers like hacking, doxing, spying, and impersonation.
- Development of Skills Motivation: It is necessary to have a keen interest in enhancing practical skills and awareness of digital security.
- Knowledge Sharing Commitment: Candidates should be prepared to share their acquired knowledge with colleagues back home.
- Training Experience: It is ideal to have prior teaching, training, or knowledge-dissemination experience.
- Program Commitment: During the training term, applicants must be completely available to participate in the fellowship, which requires a weekly time commitment of between 20–25 hours.
Benefits:
- Travel Expenses: The fellowship pays for all round-trip airfare to and from Berlin.
- Visa Support: Full support for obtaining a visa, including payment for all associated expenses.
- Accommodations: Throughout the fellowship, a fully furnished apartment in Berlin will be given.
- Monthly Living Stipend: To help with everyday living costs, participants will receive a monthly stipend.
- Health Insurance: Throughout the program, complete health insurance coverage will be offered.
- Local Transportation: There will be a Berlin public transportation pass provided.
- Work area: Access to a co-working area at a media center in Berlin.
- Cultural and Social Activities: Possibilities to participate in planned social, cultural, and tourism events.
Requirements
- English Language Proficiency: Applicants must be fluent in English, as all training sessions and program activities are conducted in English.
- Journalistic Background: Candidates should have prior experience in journalism, either as professional journalists or citizen journalists.
- Return Commitment: Fellows are expected to return to their home region after completing the fellowship in Germany.
- Interest in Digital Security: A strong interest in digital security for journalists is required. Previous expertise is not mandatory, as basic computer and smartphone skills are sufficient.
Deadline: 15th January 2026
