Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Germany has launched the application cycle for its 2026 Berlin Fellowship Program, offering a sanctuary for journalists working under restricted press freedom. Running from June to November 2026, the fellowship provides a comprehensive hands-on training program in digital security and resilience. Participants receive full financial coverage, including a monthly stipend, a furnished apartment in Berlin, travel costs, and health insurance. The program focuses on protecting journalists from digital threats while providing psychosocial support and networking opportunities within the German media landscape. Applications are open until January 15, 2026, to experienced journalists worldwide.
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Berlin Fellowship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Organization | Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Germany |
| Host Country | Berlin, Germany |
| Fellowship Type | Digital Security & Resilience Training |
| Duration | June – November 2026 (6 Months) |
| Target Group | Journalists from countries with restricted press freedom |
| Reward | Full Expenses + Monthly Stipend + Apartment |
| Application Deadline | January 15, 2026 |
Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Details
The RSF Berlin Fellowship is a premier humanitarian and professional program designed to safeguard those who report from the frontlines of information suppression. By inviting journalists to Berlin, RSF Germany provides a “safe space” where fellows can take a necessary hiatus from dangerous working conditions to focus on their physical and digital wellbeing.
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The 2026 cohort will engage in a curriculum that balances technical security with holistic psychosocial support. Fellows gain exclusive insights into the operations of a globally active human rights organization while building a lifelong network of peers. The program culminates in a knowledge-sharing commitment, where fellows return to their home regions equipped with the tools to protect their local media communities.
Benefits and Specific Scholarship Awards of the RSF
The fellowship is structured to be completely cost-neutral for the participant, covering all logistical and personal needs.
Tier 1: Comprehensive Relocation & Housing (Full Coverage)
- Berlin Living: Provision of a fully furnished studio apartment in a central Berlin location for the entire six-month duration.
- Travel & Visa: 100% coverage of international travel expenses and direct assistance with the German visa application process.
- Monthly Allowance: A generous monthly stipend to cover all personal living expenses and food costs while in Germany.
Tier 2: Specialized Training & Security Infrastructure
- Digital Security Program: Access to hands-on training in digital security, including professional-grade software and individual risk assessments.
- Workspace Access: Provision of a dedicated co-working space in a premium Berlin media hub to facilitate professional continuity.
- Mobility & Networking: Full coverage of public transportation costs within Germany and travel funds for attendance at journalism conferences.
Tier 3: Health, Wellness & Social Integration
- Holistic Support: Dedicated support for individual psychosocial needs to help fellows recover from difficult working conditions.
- Insurance Package: Comprehensive travel and health insurance provided for the duration of the stay.
- Cultural Integration: Scheduled touristic and social activities to facilitate a deep understanding of German civil society and policy.
Eligibility Requirements for Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Fellowship 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must be working journalists (staff, freelance, or citizen journalists) with at least three years of professional experience.
- Study Status: This is a non-degree fellowship; however, participants must be able to speak, read, and write English fluently to engage in the training.
- Visa Status: Must be eligible for a German fellowship visa and intend to return to their home region or country of residence after November 2026.
- Program Admission: Candidates must demonstrate that they work in a region with restricted freedom of press and are in need of digital security training.
How to Apply for Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Fellowship 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Complete the official RSF online application form before the deadline.
- Automatic Evaluation: Applications are screened for professional experience (minimum 3 years) and the level of press freedom in the applicant’s country.
- Eligibility Assessment: Submit a CV, passport scan, and contact details for two professional references for the selection committee’s review.
- Notification of Award: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews, with final fellowship offers extended in early 2026 for the June start date.
Application Deadline: January 15, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does the RSF Fellowship provide a university degree?
No, this is a professional development fellowship focused on safety and resilience; it does not lead to an academic degree.
2. Can freelance journalists apply?
Yes, the program is open to full-time staff, freelance, and citizen journalists with at least three years of experience.
3. What is the amount of the monthly stipend?
While the exact figure varies by year, the stipend is designed to cover all standard living expenses in Berlin comfortably.
4. Do I need to pay for my own flight to Berlin?
No, RSF covers all travel expenses and assists with the visa application process.
5. Is there an age limit for the RSF Berlin Fellowship?
There is no specific age limit, but applicants must have at least three years of professional journalism experience.
6. Can I apply if I don’t speak English?
No, the program is conducted entirely in English, and you must be fluent to participate in the workshops and networking.
7. What kind of training will I receive?
The core focus is on hands-on digital security, individual risk assessment, and safety/resilience building for sensitive reporting.
8. Will I have my own place to stay?
Yes, RSF provides a private, furnished studio apartment in Berlin for each fellow.
9. Am I required to stay in Germany after the fellowship?
No, fellows are explicitly expected to return to their home country or region to share the knowledge they have acquired.
10. How long does the fellowship last?
The 2026 fellowship program runs for six months, starting in June and ending in November.
