The 2026 RSF Berlin Fellowship in Germany is a fully funded international fellowship for journalists facing digital threats and seeking to improve their digital security skills. This prestigious program is organized by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) Germany and funded by the Berlin Senate Department for Economic Affairs, Energy, and Public Enterprises.
Applications are now open, and selected candidates will spend six months in Berlin, from June to November 2026, receiving professional training, financial support, and international exposure. The fellowship focuses on digital safety, self-defense, and protection against online threats, making it highly valuable for journalists working in risky environments.
This guide explains everything in clear and straightforward language, especially for first-time applicants.
Table Of Content
Table of Contents
What is the RSF Berlin Fellowship?
The RSF Berlin Fellowship is a six-month training and support program for journalists from around the world who face risks such as surveillance, hacking, online harassment, impersonation, or digital attacks.
The program aims to:
- Strengthen journalists’ digital security skills
- Improve online self-protection
- Help participants train other journalists in their home countries
- Create a global network of digitally secure media professionals
All activities are conducted in English, and no application fee is required.
Host Country and Location
- Host Country: Germany
- City: Berlin
- Program Location: Berlin media and co-working hubs
Berlin is a major European media center and offers a safe, creative, and international environment for journalists.
Fellowship Duration and Dates
- Duration: 6 Months
- Program Dates: June to November 2026
Participants must be available for 20–25 hours per week during the training period.
Financial Benefits (Fully Funded)
The 2026 RSF Berlin Fellowship is fully funded, meaning most expenses are covered.
The fellowship includes:
- Round-trip travel costs to and from Berlin
- Visa assistance and visa cost coverage
- Fully furnished apartment in Berlin
- Monthly living stipend
- Health insurance
- Berlin public transport pass
- Access to a co-working space in a media hub
- Touristic and social activities
This support allows fellows to focus entirely on learning and professional growth.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
You can apply for the RSF Berlin Fellowship if you are:
- A professional journalist, blogger, media worker, or citizen journalist
- Facing digital threats such as:
- Surveillance
- Hacking
- Doxing
- Online impersonation
- Interested in digital security and journalist safety
- Willing to share knowledge with journalists in your home country
- Experienced in teaching, training, or knowledge transfer
- Fully available for the six-month program
Language and Experience Requirements
- English Proficiency: Required (all activities are in English)
- Journalistic Experience: Must have prior experience as a journalist (professional or citizen)
- Technical Skills: Only basic computer and smartphone skills are required
- Digital Security Knowledge: No advanced expertise needed
Post-Fellowship Commitment
Applicants must agree to:
- Return to their home country or region after the fellowship
- Use their training to support and educate other journalists
- Contribute to journalist safety and digital resilience
Application Deadline
- Deadline: 15 January 2026
Late applications are usually not accepted, so apply early.
How to Apply for the 2026 RSF Berlin Fellowship?
Follow these steps:
- Visit the official RSF Germany website
- Complete the online application form
- Upload all required documents
- Submit your application before the deadline
No application fee is required.
Helpful Tips for a Strong Application
- Clearly explain the digital threats you have faced
- Show motivation to train others after the fellowship
- Highlight any teaching or training experience
- Use simple English
- Do not exaggerate your experience, be honest
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the application deadline
- Weak explanation of digital security risks
- Not explaining post-fellowship plans
- Submitting incomplete documents
- Copy-paste content from other applications
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the RSF Berlin Fellowship fully funded?
Yes, it covers travel, visa, accommodation, stipend, insurance, and transport.
Do I need advanced IT skills?
No. Basic computer and smartphone skills are enough.
Can bloggers and citizen journalists apply?
Yes, both professional and citizen journalists are eligible.
Is IELTS or TOEFL required?
No official English test is required, but you must be fluent in English.
Can I stay in Germany after the fellowship?
No. Participants must return to their home region after completion.
Why You Should Apply
The 2026 RSF Berlin Fellowship in Germany is an excellent opportunity to:
- Learn critical digital safety skills
- Live and work in Berlin
- Build an international media network
- Protect yourself and other journalists
- Advance your journalism career without financial burden
If you work in journalism and face online risks, this fellowship can be life-changing.
