The Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Fellowship offers a safe, structured pathway for journalists facing threats to continue their work, strengthen their skills and connect with a global community committed to press freedom.
Designed for experienced media professionals whose reporting has placed them at risk, the fellowship provides a secure environment where fellows can pursue independent journalism without fear while building long-term professional resilience.
Focus
The fellowship supports journalists operating under political, social, or security-related pressure. It aims to strengthen professional capacity, deepen understanding of global media-freedom challenges and equip participants with practical tools to better protect themselves and their sources.
The programme also encourages critical reflection on journalism’s role in defending democratic values, accountability and human rights.
Programme benefits
Selected fellows are hosted in Berlin and receive comprehensive support throughout the fellowship period. This includes:
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Visa and travel expenses
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Furnished accommodation
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Monthly living stipend
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Health and travel insurance
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Local transportation
Fellows also gain access to a shared workspace, professional mentoring, networking opportunities, journalism events, and cultural activities that promote collaboration and cross-border exchange.
Who the fellowship is for
The programme is open to experienced journalists with at least three years of professional practice, including reporters, freelancers, and citizen journalists working in print, broadcast and digital media.
Applicants must be actively engaged in independent journalism and able to demonstrate that their work has exposed them to threats, harassment or pressure.
Eligibility and expectations
Fellows are expected to participate fully in the programme, communicate effectively in English and return to their country of residence after completion.
Applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to press freedom and a willingness to share knowledge and experience with peers during and beyond the fellowship. Journalists covering human rights, corruption, climate change, labour rights and migration are given special consideration.
Application requirements
Applicants must submit a detailed overview of their professional background, the risks associated with their work and how the fellowship will enhance both their safety and journalistic impact.
They should also explain how digital security training and international exposure will support their continued reporting.
Deadline
The application deadline is January 15, 2026. Eligible journalists should apply via the official website.
Discover more international media fellowships on our Opportunities page.
Summary not available at this time.
