RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026 is now open for applications, offering an exceptional fully funded opportunity in Germany for journalists from around the world. Organized by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Germany, this prestigious six-month fellowship will run from June to November 2026 and is designed to strengthen journalists’ capacity to work safely in challenging digital environments.
The fellowship aims to equip participants with advanced digital security and self-defense skills, focusing on journalist safety, risk awareness, and protection against modern threats. Supported by the Berlin Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy, and Public Enterprises, the program covers all major costs and requires no application fee, making it an accessible and highly competitive international fellowship for media professionals.
Benefits of RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026
This is a Fully Funded Fellowship, and Reporters Without Borders Germany will cover:
- Travel Costs: The program covers the cost of round-trip travel to Berlin.
- Visa Cost: Assistance with all visa-related matters and Visa costs.
- Accommodation: A fully furnished apartment in Berlin will be provided for the duration of the fellowship.
- Living Stipend: A monthly allowance will be given to cover living expenses.
- Insurance: Health insurance will be provided.
- Transportation: A public transportation pass for Berlin will be provided.
- A co-working space in a Berlin media hub.
- Touristic and social activities.
Eligibility Criteria for the RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026
- The fellowship is open to Professional journalists, bloggers, media professionals, and citizen journalists who:
- Face digital threats such as surveillance, hacking, doxing, or impersonation.
- Desire to enhance their digital security knowledge and skills.
- Aim to share their acquired knowledge with colleagues in their home regions.
- Possess experience in teaching or knowledge transfer.
- Are fully committed to participating in the program, including a 20-25 hour weekly commitment during the training period.
Required Documents
- English Language Proficiency: Fluency in English is required, as all program activities will be conducted in English.
- Journalistic Experience: Candidates must have prior experience working as a journalist, either professionally or as a citizen journalist.
- Post-Fellowship Plans: Upon completion of the fellowship in Germany, participants must be committed to returning to their home region.
- Interest in Digital Security: A strong interest in learning about digital security for journalists is essential, but prior expertise is not required. Basic computer and smartphone skills are sufficient.
How to Apply for the RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026?
- Visit the official RSF Berlin Fellowship application page
- Complete the online application form carefully with accurate personal and professional details.
- Upload all required documents as instructed on the application portal.
- Review your information and documents before final submission.
- Submit the application before the official deadline stated on the website.
- For more international opportunities, explore our Fellowship Category on Scholarship Union.
Frequently Asked Questions
The RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026 brings journalists from restricted press regions to Berlin for digital safety training, resilience building, networking, and peer exchange. It runs June–November and supports fellows in becoming multipliers of digital self-defense in their home networks. :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
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What is the RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026?
The RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026 is an annual program inviting journalists from countries with restricted press freedom to Berlin. It offers a safe space to recover from difficult conditions and gain digital safety skills through comprehensive training and practical workshops. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
When can I apply for the RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026?
Applications open online on December 15, 2025 and close on January 15, 2026. Journalists eligible for this fellowship must submit their online application within this period to be considered.
What activities are included in the fellowship program?
The program runs from June to November and includes hands-on digital security training, resilience workshops, peer exchange, networking with media professionals, insights into RSF’s work, and psychosocial support.
Who is eligible to apply for the RSF Berlin Fellowship?
Journalists from countries with restricted press and information freedom can apply. They should be ready to engage fully in all activities and use the experience to support colleagues in their home region.
What skills does the fellowship aim to build?
The fellowship focuses on digital security, safety, and resilience, helping participants protect themselves and their sources against digital threats and become multipliers of digital self-defense in their networks.
How long does the RSF Berlin Fellowship 2026 last?
The 2026 fellowship takes place from June until November. Fellows should dedicate approximately 20–25 hours per week to training, workshops, and activities throughout the program.
Are participants expected to share knowledge after the fellowship?
Yes. After the fellowship concludes, each participant is expected to conduct at least one workshop or training session in their country of residence to share the skills they acquired.
Can fellows continue full-time editorial work during the program?
No. While breaks may allow some travel or work, the program requires significant weekly commitment, making it impractical to maintain a full-time editorial schedule while participating.
What kind of networking opportunities are offered?
Fellows will have chances to network with German media professionals, newsrooms, and civil society stakeholders, expanding their professional connections and support networks.
What kind of support does the fellowship provide beyond training?
In addition to training, the program offers holistic psychosocial support and insights into the work of an internationally active human rights organization focused on press freedom.
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